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Join us in the Fight Against Niemann-Pick Type C Disease |
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About the Ara Parseghian Medical Research FoundationA Personal Message From Ara Parseghian |
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Dear Friends: I need your help.
At this time, I am requesting the support of you, your families and your friends as we commit to victory against Niemann-Pick Type C, the neurodegenerative disease that has claimed the life of my loving grandson, Michael, and my granddaughter, Christa, who passed away at age 10 in October 2001, and our precious Marcia who passed away in 2005 at the age of 16. We have come a long way since the inception of our Ara Parseghian Medical Research Foundation in late 1994. Phase One of our research plan has been accomplished: scientists funded by the Foundation have identified the gene responsible for causing NP-C1. We have great hope that this discovery will quickly lead to a treatment and cure. Researchers have begun therapeutic drug trials, screening countless compounds to determine their effects on intracellular cholesterol processing. Other researchers are studying the neurologic basis of the disorder while others are studying the cell biology specific to NP-C. As I review our accomplishments over the past 13 years, I am overwhelmed with pride and gratitude. I am proud to have witnessed the establishment of an extraordinary organization of researchers, board members and volunteers who tirelessly exhibit an unparalleled level of commitment to curing a devastating disease. Most of all, I am inspired by the pure goodness of the human spirit, which has touched our family over and over through innumerable cards, letters, prayers and donations. Our hearts are broken. The pain of losing our three youngest grandchildren is almost unbearable. I think of other grandparents whose grandchild has recently been diagnosed with NP-C. We will keep up the fight for them and all families afflicted with this terrible disease. And now, as we strive toward our goal for life, I need you to remain a vital member of our team and share in the ultimate history. I welcome your tax-deductible contribution. Thank you and God bless you. -Ara Parseghian |
During my years of coaching football, each spring was dedicated to recruiting and rebuilding my team and each fall was dedicated to fighting for every yard to be victorious. At this time in my life, that process has particular significance, but we are no longer playing a game.