Welcome to team "Jubster's Jokers". We started this fundraising team in honor of our son John. John is a funny little guy who likes to laugh. He is lovingly called "Jubsters" by his two older sisters. Oh, John also happens to have Down Syndrome.
On September 14, Jubster's Jokers will be participating in the Third Annual Romp for Research. The Romp is raising money for the Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation (DSRTF). It is being held on Asphalt Green in Manhattan and promises to be a fun filled afternoon for all
When we first learned John had Down syndrome, we were a bit shell shocked. Needless to say, the past year and a half has been quite a learning experience for us all. There have been some hard moments, but countless have been the moments where John has brought a smile to those around him.
It has been truly amazing watching our little guy enjoy all life has to offer. He teaches daily about what life is all about and reminds how truly blessed we are.
After making it through open heart surgery at 5 months old, John has, thankfully, been in great health. Yes, he is developing at slower pace, but we have great faith in him. We are dedicated to helping him reach his full potential.
The Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation (DSRTF) also believes in the potential of individuals with Down syndrome. As stated on its website:
"The mission of DSRTF is to stimulate biomedical research that will accelerate the development of treatments to significantly improve cognition for individuals with Down syndrome.
The recent mapping of the human genome has ushered in an unprecedented opportunity for Down syndrome research. For the first time in our history scientists now have tools, techniques, and mouse models of DS that are making it easier to understand the biology of Down syndrome. The goal is clear – the identification of treatments aimed at improving learning, memory, speech and even the late in life neurological decline experienced by those with Down syndrome."
We love John just the way he is, but we also appreciate what a boost in cognition could mean to his future. While we appreciate that this research is just in the beginning stages, we can't help excited about this research which is being done at leading universities, such as Stanford, John Hopkins and University of Arizona.
Have your doubts? Just think, thirty years ago, a baby was conceived in test tube, and now, in vitro fertilization is accessible to all who can afford it. You never know when the next scientific breakthrough may occur! As John has taught us, life is filled with surprises.
We invite you to show your support of our Jubster by joining us on September 14th at the Romp for Research or by donating to our team efforts. You can donate directly through this secure site or email me at cvitale@optonline.net to make other arrangements. No amount is too small, dollar by dollar, we'll help the research continue.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our efforts. Please feel free to pass this along to all who may be interested.
Thank you!
Bill, Christine, Katherine, Julia, and John the "Jubster"
The outpouring of love and support that we have received has already been incredible. We reached our $2500 goal after just a few hours of fundraising so I had to raise our goal! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Oh, I also think it is important to note that the research being funded by the Down Syndrome Research and Treatment Foundation can also be applicable to the general population, particularly regarding the study of atherosclerotic disease and solid tumor cancers such as breast and colon.