NF Smarty Pants

Archive for October, 2009

Instead of getting the usual presents at his bar mitzvah, Aaron Posner will raise money for NF research. He is asking for donations to the Washington University Neurofibromatosis Center in St. Louis.

University of Central Florida professor and researcher Cristina Fernandez-Valle has just been awarded two grants from the National Institutes of Health. Click on the first link to learn more about her from the school’s announcement.

Scientists at UCLA’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center announced that their research have determined that the tumor suppression gene PTEN plays a role in the turning of benign neurofibromas into malignant tumors. This finding allows researchers to focus on drug therapies to control the affected pathways and prevent future cancerous transformations.

NF, Inc. Midwest’s annual symposium takes place at a new location this year. A large number of experts will be on hand to share their knowledge and the latest in research. There are special break-outs focusing on issues related to teens and NF2. See the pdf brochure here.

Jeneece Edroff, a 15 year old with neurofibromatosis, will light Victoria’s cauldron and be a torchbearer in Canada’s torch relay festivities. Jeneece has raised over $1 million for research and support, and has her own charity organization called Jeneece Place.

Flashes of Hope is joining forces with the Cavaliers Better Halves, a charity organization run by the wives of the Cleveland Cavaliers basketball team, to put on Big Shots and Little Stars. This fashion show and auction will benefit Flashes of Hope and the Children’s Tumor Foundation.

Nick Folk, kicker for the Dallas Cowboys football team, is teaming up with the Children’s Tumor Foundation to raise funds and awareness. For every extra point this season, Folk will donate $25 to CTF. He will also donate $75 for every field goal. You can also get involved.