National PKU Alliance Brings Rare Disease Fundraiser to Cleveland

CLEVELAND - April 20, 2018 - PRLog -- The National PKU Alliance (NPKUA) is proud to partner with two local families on Saturday, October 6, 2018 to host a fundraising gala called Lifting the Limits for PKU in the City of Rock. The gala is expected to draw more than 300 supporters to the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel Grand Ballroom.

The gala will include dinner and cocktails, a silent auction, a scientific overview on funded research, a live auction with a fund-a-need paddle raise, and music and dancing at the program conclusion.

PKU is a rare, inherited metabolic disorder characterized by the inability to utilize the essential amino acid phenylalanine (Phe), found in all foods. It is treated by adhering for life to a very strict, low-protein diet (on average of four grams of protein a day), expensive medical formula and foods, regular blood tests and frequent clinic visits.

"Although treatable, current research shows being on diet for life doesn't always result in normal brain growth and development," said Christine Brown, executive director of the National PKU Alliance. "The NPKUA Fund was established by our nonprofit to advance the science of PKU by funding the most promising, peer-reviewed research that will lead to better treatments and ultimately, find a cure."

The NPKUA partners with local families to host "Lifting the Limits for PKU" fundraisers across the country. Event co-chairs Jeremiah & Jessica Widmer and Michelle Cribbet are securing sponsorships to cover event costs. Proceeds raised the night of the Cleveland event will go directly to the NPKUA Fund.

For more information on sponsoring or donating, visit the event page at https://npkua.org/News-Events/Lifting-the-Limits/Cleveland2018.

About the National PKU Alliance

Established in 2008, the NPKUA is a collaboration of PKU community members joining together as a national voice. The nonprofit organization supports local efforts to raise PKU awareness, drive advocacy and education, and ultimately find a cure. Learn more by visiting https://npkua.org  or calling 715-495-4008.