Dear friends,

As you know, our son Gabriel was born with a rare metabolic disorder that prevents him from breaking down protein properly. As a result, he has significant developmental delays and is at risk of brain damage, coma and even death.

This year, Marisa is running the New York City Marathon in an effort to increase awareness of the disease and raise funds for the Organic Acidemia Association (OAA) -- a  non-profit organization, the mission of which is to provide emotional and educational support for families with kids who have Gabriel’s condition and related metabolic disorders.

We are very grateful to the OAA for their support over the six amazing years of Gabriel's life. Please, help us achieve our goal of raising $10,000 for this organization so that they fulfill their mission and help many other kids with organic acidemias.

We greatly appreciate every donation. Your support will motivate Marisa to complete this amazing challenge on November 2nd.

Thank you in advance for all your support. We look forward to seeing all of you at the finish line and at the post-race party! (details to follow).

                        Marisa Cotrina and Juan Carlos Lopez
                        Parents to Gabriel, 6 yo, propionic acidemia