This is Jadon. Or “Bug” as his parents, Kristin and Tony Burks, lovingly call him. And this darling bright blue-eyed little boy just celebrated his first birthday! A first birthday that means so, so much because it is a day the Burks family were not certain Jadon would get to see. Ten months ago, when Kristin and Tony learned the most heartbreaking news that their precious son had been diagnosed with SMA, family and friends rallied around in support. The companies they worked for were no exception. In late 2009, several fundraising events were organized by Nazdar (Kristin's employer) and Dimensional Innovations (Tony's employer) to help with Jadon's future medical expenses and portions of these events were donated to SMA research.Knowing the incredible milestone of turning a year old, Nazdar's Community Outreach Committee once again went into action and organized a fundraiser selling “Jadon's Hope – Cure SMA” wristbands – all in honor of Jadon's first birthday! The goal was set to raise $1,000 with all proceeds being donated to SMA research. Employees spanning the US in 8 locations stepped up and every single wristband sold, collectively raised $1,500!!!
I am truly fortunate to work for such a caring organization and with such incredibly amazing people. Since learning of Jadon's diagnosis, I feel like my Nazdar family has linked arms with Tony and me – ready to fight SMA, every step of the way. And for that, I am honored and humbled.
Thank you so much Kristin and Tony for creatively fighting SMA while celebrating your beautiful son. Thank you Nazdar for your wonderful support. And Happy Birthday sweet Jadon!!! 100% of this great fundraiser goes toward the $200K for SMA campaign for gene therapy research!!!