Hi, thanks for visiting my page and showing your love and support!  I hope you all can make it out to cheer me on as I make my 1st attempt at swimming 600 laps in my neighborhood pool, which is the equivalent of 6 miles!  This event will take place on Sunday, October 15th, 2006.

Huntington's Disease (HD) is a truly devastating disease.  It is a fatal, degenerative brain disorder for which an effective treatment or cure has not yet been found. HD is passed genetically.  Children of HD sufferers have a 50% chance of developing the disease, which destroys one’s ability to walk, think, talk, and reason. Affecting 1 in 10,000 Americans, who either suffer from the disease or risk inheriting it, it is estimated that as many as 55,000 Texans deal with HD’s devastating effects. Progress in research and treatment of HD also helps in other degenerative neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease, ALS and Alzheimer’s disease.

Proceeds from “Swim For A Cure” will benefit HDSA care programs and research in Texas - including the Center of Excellence at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston , research underway at University of Texas , Southwest Medical Center in Dallas , as well as education and support in the local communities.  Your gift will help ensure that these Texas programs remain at the forefront in the race to find a cure for HD!

The “Swim for a Cure” is a 6 mile swim circuit.   Honestly, I have never swum 6 miles continuously, and training for this I have only been able to do 4 straight miles.  This will be tough, but worth it. 

It is worth it to me, because my mom has Huntington’s disease.  She has been sick for 4 years now, and aside from going to school, working and swimming, I am her primary caregiver.  My mom means so much to me, and I will care for her as long as I am able to do so.  I am 17 years old, and am considered at-risk.  In March, I will be getting tested to see whether or not I carry the gene.  For now, though, my main focus and goal is to raise as much awareness and money as I possibly can.

Thank you for visiting my Personal Fundraising Page. Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to our fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!