Jack Rabbit Run/Walk Logo

Meet Jack... and other faces of SMA

About 8 years ago, our son Jack was diagnosed with this terrible disease. He cannot sit on his own and will never walk. At age 9, he has seen more hospitals and doctors than many will in a lifetime. However, Jack is very smart and full of joy. He enjoys cruising around in his power wheelchair and using his computer. He likes cheering on his favorite sports teams - all 150 of them! He is exceptional and we want his life to be full.

Sincerely, Barry and Mary Beth Kotheimer
Munson, Ohio

About SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy)

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a group of inherited and sometimes fatal diseases that destroy the nerves controlling voluntary movement, such as crawling, walking, head and neck control, and swallowing. This is a chronic, progressive diesase that has no cure. Research funds are desperately needed to hasten the treatment of these diseases so that a cure will be found. The disease is deceivingly common, with one in every 6,000 live births affected. One in 40 people carry the SMA gene. Type 1 SMA is the number 1 genetic killer of children under age 2. Children with Type 2 SMA face good chances of living into their adolescent years, and some children with Type 3 SMA can lead fairly normal lives.

About Families of SMA

Devoted to a cure, Families of SMA is 100% volunteer and the only national organization which specifically offers family support and networking for SMA diseases as well as education and public awareness of SMA; pools equipment to ease the high cost of medical expenses; and provides funding for full-time genetic research. For more information about SMA view the Families of SMA national Web site at www.fsma.org