The HDSA and Team Hope

The Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA) is the largest non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all who are affected by Huntington's Disease. Not just the gene-positive person, but the gene-negative family members and friends, too. There mission is to provide "help for today and hope for tomorrow" by promoting and supporting research and medical research to end HD and to assist those affected by HD to cope with the problems the disease brings. They also strive to educate health organizations and professionals and the general public about the disease. The HDSA is dedicated to provide the family services, education, advocacy and research that will help those affected today and also hope for a cure tomorrow for those family.

The HDSA is a 501(c)(3) organization that was originally founded by folk singer Woody Guthrie's wife - Marjorie Guthrie. Marjorie began seeking other families that had been affected by this dreadful disease soon after she lost her husband to HD. This lead to the Committee to Combat Huntington's Disease created in 1967 by a handful of volunteers. Later becoming the HDSA, the organization continues the mission she started with 54 community based volunteer chapters and a national office that provides leadership, support and guidance to the families of Huntington's Disease.

This support and guidance is provided in many different ways. There are support groups located throughout the country, publications for family, doctors and friends to help better understand the disease, assistance for the care giver, and the most current news about research and clinical trials that are going on. You can learn more by visiting their website.

Each year, in various places around the country, the HDSA also has a fundraising walk called the Team Hope Walk. The goal is to raise money for more research and study to learn even more about this disease and also provide assistance to the families living with HD. This will be the second year that Robert and I have participated. This year, it will take place on October 20, 2013. This is 6 days after the second anniversary of Cheryl's death. We will be walking in honor of her and hope you will consider sponsoring us. The HDSA is an important part of our lives and the lives of the many across the world who must live with this disease. Your donation will help the goal to eradicate this disease so that no other family will have to suffer the effects of HD. 

Please visit Cheryl's Kids and donate today. We appreciate your support.