CUPID’S CHARITY IS ON A MISSION TO FIND A CURE FOR NEUROFIBROMATOSIS.
We fund research for neurofibromatosis, or ‘NF,’ a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and affects 1 in every 3,000 births. Currently, there is no cure, but together with our loyal community of supporters, we’re on a mission to change that.
We work in alliance with our partner, the Children’s Tumor Foundation (CTF), a 4-star rated charity, and the world’s leader in NF research. Since our start in 2010, our support has helped CTF generate 116 preclinical studies which have led to 16 clinical trials. One of those trials resulted in more than 70% of participants seeing their tumors shrink by 20 to 50%.
CUPID'S CHARITY HAS RAISED $20,850,000 SINCE OUR INCEPTION IN 2010 WITH 100% OF OUR NET PROCEEDS FUNDING NF RESEARCH.
EVERY DOLLAR BRINGS US CLOSER TO A CURE.
NEUROFIBROMATOSIS IS NOT PICKY.
NF is categorized as a rare disorder; however, it is actually more prevalent than cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Huntington’s disease combined. NF affects all genders, ethnicities and ages equally from newborns to adults all across the globe. NF is not consistent. Its symptoms can be wildly different from person to person and include blindness, deafness, bone abnormalities, disfigurement, learning disabilities, disabling pain, and cancer. 50% of all NF cases occur in families with no history of NF.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
We fundraise because we believe there is a cure for NF. Whether we’re dropping our pants in February for Cupid’s Undie Run or creating a DIY fundraising project, our passionate community won’t stop until we #EndNF. Here is how you can get involved.
MEET OUR NF CHAMPIONS
Cupid’s Charity is made up of families, patients, and friends who are deeply affected by neurofibromatosis – but even more deeply invested in finding a cure. Our NF Champions are true fighters and we’re proud to fight alongside them.
Meet ODESSA
“Odessa was diagnosed with NF1 in 1995 at age 6. When she was about 14, she started having surgeries to remove tumors on her spine. She currently has 2 tumors in her neck that are pinching her spinal cord that are no longer able to be removed and continue to grow. She has had multiple surgeries since then. In 2008, Odessa had a high grade MPNST malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor removed from her sciatic nerve in her left leg. She is a survivor! Odessa has endured 25 surgeries and more than 84 MRIs in her lifetime so far!”
Meet EMERSON
“We were told when Emerson was born that she had a high probability of being diagnosed with NF. But she was diagnosed with another genetic disorder first @4yrs. Old and then at 7 she was officially diagnosed with NF1. She has 7 tumors in her brain 2 of which are optic gliomas. And unfortunately she is one of the 50% who has learning disabilities and ADHD. She is a happy kid with a big ❤️ and Loves art and creativity the most.”
Meet MEGAN
“Meg Has NF 1. She has undergone radiation for optic glioma at age 5 and has no right eye vision, surgery for a cerebellum astrocytoma at age 12, and a stroke, just last year at age 38. Through the years, she has raised many dollars for NF causes (even hosting her own New Years Eve charity gala), served on the board of the midatlantic NF council, attended many NF conferences, and volunteers at Johns Hopkins, helping young interns gain diagnostic skills for NF.”
Meet JOSHUA
“At just 2 years of age Joshua was the 5th person in his family diagnosed with NF2. What was supposed to be a routine eye exam quickly turned serious when tumors were found in each eye. Knowing the family history, his parents quickly scheduled the first of many biannual MRIs. As a teenager Joshua developed the hallmark brain and spine of the disorder. Joshua underwent Gamma Knife radiation therapy and did not shed one tear throughout the entire procedure. His infectious smile and unwavering hope carried his entire family through what was every parent’s worst nightmare.”
10 Things You Need to Know About Cupid's Undie Run
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