Mission: FightSMA, known legally as “Andrew’s Buddies Corporation,” was created to strategically accelerate the search for a treatment and cure for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a deadly crippler and the number-one inherited cause of infant death. The organization pursues this objective by increasing awareness and funding SMA research.
Geographic areas served: International
Programs: In July 2010, FightSMA announced a new fundraising campaign for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) gene therapy, “Realizing the Dream.” FightSMA is collaborating with the Santa Barbara-based Gwendolyn Strong Foundation, to form a bi-coastal partnership with a common goal: to bring SMA gene therapy to clinical trial.
FightSMA’s objective for the balance of 2010 is to complete funding for Phase One ($250,000) and then for Year-One of Phase Two of the research program. “The first objective is to build a solid foundation of safety and to eliminate toxicity,” said Dr. Chris Lorson, FightSMA Science Director. Additionally, FightSMA plans to raise another $250,000 to fund the first year of Phase Two (Delivery & Efficacy). The “Realizing the Dream” program will be accomplished through a series of campaigns. Completing these two Phases will bring SMA gene therapy significantly closer to clinical trial.
To learn more about gene therapy and how to become more involved in "Realizing the Dream," visit www.FightSMA.org.
Andrew's Buddies is one of the most rewarding organizations with which I have ever been involved.
The dedication of staff,doctors and volunteers to find a cure for the children and assist the families are second to none.
The strides made over the years from a small kitchen table group to a nationally based non-profit corporation fighting for the health of children says everything about Marhta and Joe Slay's determination and dedication.
Fight SMA works tirelessly to advocate for more awareness, funding, and attention for spinal muscular atrophy, the #1 genetic killer of young children, and they do so in a positive, collaborative, and proactive manner. They literally gave my family hope and focus at the most devastating time in our lives. They are amazing!!!
When my daughter was diagnosed with SMA I was devestated and didn't know where to turn. I found Fight SMA and felt immediate support. Through Fight SMA I knew we were not alone and I gained hope for the finding of a cure/treatment for SMA, not only to help my daughter but to help all of the other families dealing with this devestating disease. Through the "Fighter Mom" handbook I have gained tips on how to bring awareness to SMA and ideas about how to fundraise for our cause. The team of professionals that Fight SMA has been able to put me in touch with has been outstanding and very insightful. I am eternally grateful for the support, hard work, and help from Fight SMA/Andrew's Buddies.
