On February 28, we hope you'll join us in observing World Rare Disease Day. This is the perfect time of year to show your support for rare groups, such as the GAND community! To date, GATAD2B-associated neurodevelopmental disorder (GAND) has been identified in approximately 230 individuals worldwide. More than 90% of them are children. Despite being such a small group, in 2021, we welcomed over 40 newly identified cases into our community.

Helping Hands for GAND was established in 2015 with a mission to support individuals and families affected by GAND, to increase awareness, and to work toward research and treatment opportunities to enrich the lives of those with this rare genetic condition. Since then, we've accomplished a lot, including hosting 4 conferences and facilitating $140,000 in research grants for GAND studies, including another $40,000 grant from HHFG in 2021. Please partner with us to continue supporting this important work. This year, we're counting on your help to host another conference, launch our patient registry, continue supporting GAND research, and much more.

To make a lasting impact, we need donors like you to support our efforts. We also need fundraisers like you to set up your own fundraising page for this campaign and share with your family, friends, and co-workers. You can even captain your own fundraising team! Share your story! Tell us how GAND has impacted you or your loved ones. Help us raise awareness and support for this rare disorder while funding research which can give us new insights into our children's challenges!

Please set up your personal campaign page today. It's fast and simple! To show our appreciation, we will send 5 silicone awareness bands to everyone who joins the campaign and shares their personal fundraising page to social media. In order to receive your bands, be sure your post is made public and tag Helping Hands for GAND (@GATAD2B). Wristbands will be shipped in late March.

Our TOP fundraiser will receive a coupon code for FREE registration to the 2022 GAND Gathering & Scientific Conference for their immediate family. 2nd place will receive a coupon code for one free adult registration ($75 value) to this year's Gathering. 3rd place will receive one free GAND shirt from our Bonfire store.

What are you waiting for? Get started on your personal campaign now! Let's work together to make a rare impact for the GAND community!