Help Kristin M. Callahan Foundation

Kristin M. Callahan Foundation

North Andover, Massachusetts

Cause Description:
The Kristin M. Callahan Foundation was formed in memory of Kristin, working to help improve the awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of heart disease, primarily Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in young people. We also give back to our surrounding community through scholarships, donations, and activity. HCM occurs in approximately 1 in every 500 people in the general population, making it one of the most common genetic heart conditions. HCM is also more common than many other hereditary diseases such as Down Syndrome (1 in 800) and Cystic Fibrosis (1 in 3,300). What makes a condition like HCM dangerous is that sudden cardiac death can occur without prior symptoms. Even those who experience symptoms may discount them as “normal,” and not seek proper treatment. This is why undiagnosed HCM is one of the leading causes of death in young athletes. While many treatment options are available to those living with HCM, there is currently no cure. We hope to change that. With your help, our goal is to educate the public about the dangers and warning signs of HCM, increase screening for it, and work toward the eradication of this disease.

Type: Human/ Social Services
Listed on iGive since: September 2010
iGive members supporting: 1

Website: www.kristincallahan.org

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