The Dysautonomia Foundation New York, N.Y. is a non-profit organization that supports medical research and treatment for children afflicted with Familial Dysautonomia (FD). FD is a Jewish Genetic Disease that is always life threatening and sometimes fatal. Children with FD can’t do a lot of things most people take for granted. They can’t feel heat or cold or pain. Many can’t swallow food or even their saliva without damaging their lungs and contracting pneumonia. Crying without tears is one of the most striking symptoms of FD.

The Dysautonomia Foundation is the largest source of funding for FD research in the world. Foundation-sponsored research has led to advances that have extended life expectancy and improved quality of life for people with FD. Our research led to the discovery of the genetic defect that causes FD and has made possible a carrier screening test for the general population. Researchers are now trying to understand how the FD gene works in order to develop genetic therapies and a cure. In 2007, a clinical trial is being conducted on a new compound that holds great promise for the treatment of FD.

Your generosity is greatly appreciated.