Our laboratory performs testing on several genes associated with autosomal recessive primary microcephaly and other brain malformation disorders. The Foundation for Children with Microcephaly is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children diagnosed with Microcephaly (and other closely-related neurological disorders) to progress, thrive and succeed in life. Founded by a mother of a little girl diagnosed with Microcephaly, FCM is the only charity in the nation dedicated to helping children with the all too common disorder. Despite the fact that Microcephaly is common (even more common that Autism), it is often overlooked due to lack of awareness. FCM is devoted to raising awareness of Microcephaly so that it will no longer be under-recognized and overlooked.
FCM provides much needed support to families, connects families going through similar situations with “Operation Star Connect”, and helps children acquire necessities & services to live the best, most comfortable life possible. FCM also recently started a new program called “Wish Upon a Star”. Children diagnosed with Microcephaly, Lissencephaly, Polymicrogyria and other closely-related neurological disorders make a wish and FCM does everything in their power to fulfill all of their wishes and make their dreams come true.
FCM has held three successful annual conventions for families. The conventions provide support, an abundance of information and speakers, and give the families a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet and visit with the world’s top physicians – including William B Dobyns, MD. Families attend the conventions from all over the world. The conventions are absolutely amazing with all of the families from all over the world joined together – each year there is an unexplainable magical spark throughout the entire event. FCM has recently switched their convention schedule from annual to biennial.
The Foundation for Children with Microcephaly was founded by Jenniffer Lewis in 2007. Jenniffer Lewis is the mother of Kaylee, a now seven year old little girl diagnosed with Microcephaly. Jenniffer started the charity because when her daughter was diagnosed she had nowhere to turn – she could not believe that there was not a single nonprofit organization dedicated to helping all of the children and their families being diagnosed with Microcephaly. She has built, from the ground up, the Foundation for Children with Microcephaly which now supports thousands of families each year.
For more information on Microcephaly, Lissencephaly, Polymicrogyria, or other closely-related neurological disorders or if your child has just been diagnosed contact us by visiting www.microcephaly.org or call 877-476-5503.
By: Jenniffer Lewis