Prader-Willi Syndrome Research at Mt. Sinai

Because of several recent deaths from complications of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), a genetic eating disorder (see below), renewed interest has erupted for funding additional research to find a cure.

Recently, Dr. Jamie Bassel and Mrs. Jacqueline Kotler-Bassel, parents of Zak Bassel who was diagnosed with PWS were approached by the Genetic Disease Foundation (GDF), to be honored at this year's GDF Gala. Dr. Bassel is a Director of the Prader-Willi Alliance of New York, Inc. (PWANY). The GDF Gala will be held on Monday, June 11th, 2007 at the Pier60/Chelsea Piers in Manhattan.

Mount Sinai School of Medicine's (MSSM) Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences have agreed to establish a research geneticist position at MSSM who will be dedicated to doing research on PWS. This is the first such position in New York State and the great northeast. MSSM has committed significant fund to support this position.

The Bassel family and their foundation, Zak's Promise: Progress With Support, Inc. along with the Prader-Willi Alliance of New York, Inc. have committed to raising $200,000 to fund this position.

A cure is possible. This research position will go a long way to finding that cure for people with PWS all over the world.

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder affecting 1 in 12,000 births. People with PWS are always hungry and no matter how much or how often they eat they will remain hungry. They are short in stature, have difficult behaviors and are mildly to severely mentally challenged. Obesity is inevitable and death due to obesity related causes will and have occurred unless external restrictions are put in place. Early diagnosis is key, and will save lives.

The Prader-Willi Alliance of New York is a not-for-profit, organization that provides support, hope and advocacy to all those affected by Prader-Willi Syndrome throughout New York State. Their website is www.prader-willi.org. To make a tax deductible donation for Prader-Willi syndrome research, send your donations to: Prader-Willi Alliance of New York, Inc. PO Box 1114, Niagara Falls, NY 14304. Please reference PWS Research with your donation.

Please help us find a cure for Prader-Willi syndrome.

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Contact information:
Barbara McManus, President
Prader-Willi Alliance of New York, Inc. |
PO Box 1114 |
Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Telephone (800) 442-1655
Website: www.prader-willi.org
Email: alliance@prader-willi.org