Bone marrow donor drive on May 10th at Vector Brewing.

Lake Highlands, there’s a little boy who needs us.

Young William was diagnosed with X-Linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) when he was only a month old.

It’s a devastating genetic disorder with no cure, primarily affecting the nervous system and adrenal glands. Caused by mutations in the ABCD1 gene, it leads to a toxic buildup of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) that destroy the protective myelin around nerve cells. The most severe form, childhood cerebral ALD, progresses rapidly and can be fatal without timely intervention. Early diagnosis through newborn screening or genetic testing is critical for accessing treatments that can slow progression, such as stem cell transplants. Raising awareness and supporting research are essential to improving outcomes for those affected.

All of that to say that bone marrow donations can help. We won’t get into the science here, but feel free to read all about ALD here.

If you have it in your heart, make that your bones, to see if you’re a match for William (or any kiddo with ALD), please come to our donor drive on Saturday, May 10 from 4:30-6:30pm.

From William’s Parents:

“Our 1-year-old son William was diagnosed at birth with a rare disease that may soon require a lifesaving bone marrow transplant. Right now, he doesn’t have a perfect match — but you could be that match, for him or for someone else in urgent need.

We invite our community to join us at our upcoming bone marrow donor drive and consider joining the NMDP (formerly Be The Match) registry. Doctors use this registry to find matches for both children and adults awaiting transplants. A perfect match can make all the difference, significantly reducing the risks involved with this critical procedure.

The process to sign up is quick, simple, and completely free. A representative will be on-site to answer questions and walk you through what it means to be a donor.

Thank you for considering this powerful opportunity to offer someone a second chance at life.”