A walk scheduled for tomorrow will raise funds and awareness for local patients living with neurofibromatosis.
The Jacksonville NF Walk will take place at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Saturday, Sept. 14.
Patty-Jean Dye, volunteer and asst. chairperson for the program, said it’s an excellent chance for anyone to come and enjoy the zoo while contributing to a worthy cause.
Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a common, yet relatively unknown genetic disorder that occurs in 1 out of every 3,000 births and causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body.
“There’s no cure,” Dye said, “and there aren’t very many treatment options.”
Dye, who was diagnosed with NF at birth, said surgery or chemotherapy are the best options.
The NF Walk program was established in 2009 as a national fundraiser to raise awareness for NF. The program has 37 walks across the nation every year.
“It supports the patients, as well as the families,” said Patty’s husband, Thomas. “It gives them a place to get information.”
Funds raised at the 5k fun run will support The Children’s Tumor Foundation, dedicated to funding critical research for neurofibromatosis.
You can sign up in advance at NFWalk.org or in person on Saturday morning at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
