An organization has been formed to assist people with neuromucular disorders.
Help and Assistance for Neuromuscular Disorders is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to raise awareness and provide financial assistance to those afflicted with neuromuscular disorders in Seneca County.
The long-term goal of HAND is to have the ability to provide home modifications such as ramps and supplying assistive devices to those affected by a neuromuscular disease.
Area residents Marquita Smith, Amanda Fries, Micki Criswell and Sasha Fries, who have been touched by these illnesses either through their work in the health care field or through personal experience, have come together to form the organization.
Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves that control voluntary muscles, such as in the arms and legs. Nerves cells send the messages that control these muscles. When these cells become unhealthy or die, communication between the cells and muscles break down, causing muscles to weaken.
The weakness can lead to twitching, cramps and, in some cases, can affect the ability to breathe.
Examples of neuromuscular disorders include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease), multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis and spinal muscular atrophy.
Many neuromuscular diseases can be passed from generation to generation. However, the cause often is unknown and there rarely is a cure for these disorders.
The goal of treatment is to improve symptoms, including mobility and lengthen the quality of life.
HAND plans to host a fundraiser at Republic Town Hall 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 11. An all-you-can-eat soup, salad, breadstick and dessert menu is to be offered for $7 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and younger. There also is to be a 50/50 drawing and other raffles.
Donations also may be made by mail to HAND, P.O. Box 32, Bascom, OH 44809.
HAND also is seeking individuals intersted in volunteering for future fundraising events.
Email firstname.lastname@example.org or call (419) 937-2831 for details.