Casey Gonzales

Casey Gonzales's Fundraiser

I am Running for a Reason in the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon! image

I am Running for a Reason in the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon!

Join me and help make a difference, please give today.

View All 31 Supporters
Share:

$4,300 towards $3,000

Thanks for visiting leading up to the New York City Marathon on November 5th! I will be representing the Dup15q Alliance to benefit families and individuals impacted by Dup15q syndrome. This chromosomal disorder has many characteristics, but common symptoms/features are developmental delay (i.e. motor skills, speech), epilepsy, and autism.

My daughter, Charlotte, was formally diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder in late 2020. In order to understand the root cause of her developmental delays, she underwent a gamut of blood tests, brain activity scans, and MRIs, all before the age of 2. The results of her genetic screening informed us of a partial deletion of the 6q11-q14 chromosome. Some of the symptoms she experiences are shared with Dup15q syndrome.

Because her disorder is so rare, we didn't have the guidance of a group like Dup15q Alliance. Understanding and coping with this diagnosis was a difficult road for us. We didn't know if she'd be able to walk unassisted or even speak, but despite this uncertainty, our baby girl has persevered and bulldozed through every barrier in her path. Through the unwavering support of her developmental pediatricians, habilitative therapists, and special education team, Charlotte is running, speaking in full sentences, and now swimming! She is my biggest inspiration and fuels my advocacy journey.

My wife, Paulina, and I are privileged to have careers that afford the benefits and resources that Charlotte needs to flourish, but unfortunately, our story is the rare exception. The Dup15q Alliance provides financial, medical, and community support to families across the globe so they may receive the same medical attention that Charlotte has benefited from. Beyond early-age developmental support, the Alliance also provides "transition to adulthood" programs for individuals who are ready to lead independent lives.

If you can make a financial donation, please know that every dollar will contribute to someone's future. If you aren't in a position to do so, I totally understand... Just think of me and Charlotte and send some good vibes when I'm in New York this November!

To learn more about dup15q syndrome visit: www.dup15q.org