Mitchell Zerafa
by Mitchell Zerafa
Supporters
After enduring many symptoms from a few weeks of age, and many tests to figure out what was causing them Mitchell was finally diagnosed with Glut1 at age 6. Before diagnosis Mitchell struggled to learn and develop, had seizures and chronic ataxia as well as many other issues that made every day life a challenge. Since diagnosis and beginning treatment Mitchell has been able to live a much better life with most symptoms disappearing which enabled him to learn, grow and develop at a steady rate, plus participate in things he was once never able to do. Glut1 is a condition that for the lucky ones can have amazing results once diagnosed and treated, and for this reason we need to continue to raise awareness and continue research to help our Glut1 children, now and in the future.
Thank you for showing your love for Some1 with Glut1 and for helping us bring help and hope to the Glut1 Deficiency community.
Glut1 Deficiency is a rare genetic condition where glucose doesn't reach and fuel the brain properly, resulting in a wide spectrum of neurological issues affecting brain growth, learning, movement, speech, and often causing seizures. There are fewer than 1,000 people diagnosed in the world, but experts believe there are many, many more patients still waiting to be found. Because Glut1 Deficiency is so rare, many in the medical profession don't have the knowledge they need to diagnose and properly treat it.
There is a very effective treatment for most patients - a ketogenic diet, and the earlier patients are diagnosed and start treatment the better the outcome. As fortunate as we are to have the diet, it is not a cure, not a complete treatment, and it is not easy. We need more research for better understanding, better treatment options, and ultimately a complete cure.
The Glut1 Deficiency Foundation is working hard to bring help and hope to the Glut1 Deficiency community.
The Love Some1 with Glut1 annual campaign is our primary awareness and fundraising event. It runs from Valentine's Day (February 14th) through Rare Disease Day (February 28th), and it is an opportunity to spread awareness and raise much needed funds to help better serve the needs of the community. All donations help fund our mission programs for increased awareness, improved education, advocacy for patients and families, and support and funding for research.
some highlights our supporters made possible in 2017
Please help us continue our mission.
We can do so much more together than any of us can do alone.
please watch our special thank you video
Please visit our website to learn more about Glut1 Deficiency and the work of the G1D Foundation.
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