This year’s Fragile X walk raised over $45,000. The group’s goal was $50,000 and is hoping to still reach that number. Photo by Janelle Germanos.
Families and friends of those with Fragile X gathered at Burke Lake Park last week to participate in the second annual Fragile X walk.
Photo Gallery
Fragile X Walk at Burke Lake Park
So far, the Fragile X Families of Northern Virginia have raised a little over $45,000, almost reaching their goal of $50,000 to go towards Fragile X research and education.
Click Photo for FlashSo far, the Fragile X Families of Northern Virginia have raised a little over $45,000, almost reaching their goal of $50,000 to go towards Fragile X research and education.
Buffy Grande, a Fairfax Station resident and co-chair of the Fragile X Families of Northern Virginia, coordinated the walk. Grande’s son has Fragile X. Her daughter Georgia isn’t a carrier, but Grande said she is a huge advocate for her brother. She’s been raising money for research for Fragile X with her “Oh Brother” lemonade stand and has raised over $700 in the past three years.
Grande and her husband Jimi started the Fragile X Families of Northern Virginia after attending an international conference on the syndrome. The group has about 12 to 16 families that participate, and provides support and resources to help individuals with Fragile X and their families.
Fragile X is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability, and occurs in approximately 1 in 3600 males and 1 in 4000 females. It is also the most common known genetic cause of autism.
To donate to the Fragile X walk, visit https://www.crowdrise.com/FamiliesofNorthernVirginia2014.