Rett Syndrome
Rett Syndrome, a neurological disorder named after Dr. Andreas Rett, who first described the condition, it occurs predominantly in girls.
The child with Rett syndrome usually shows an early period of normal or near-normal development until about 6 to 18 months of age.
A period of temporary stagnation or regression follows during which time the child loses communication skills and purposeful use of the hands. Soon, stereotyped hand movements, gait disturbances, and slowing of the rate of head growth become apparent.
Other problems encountered may include seizures and disorganized breathing patterns. Apraxia, the inability to program the body to perform motor movements, is the most fundamental and severely handicapping aspect of Rett. Rett is a developmental disorder rather than a degenerative disorder as once thought.
In 1999, it was discovered that Rett syndrome is caused by a mutation of the MECP2 gene on the X chromosome.
Now that the gene has been found, new efforts are underway to develop treatments and ultimately a cure, for Rett syndrome.
We hope to serve as a support system for families and professionals
• To promote an awareness and understanding of Rett syndrome
• To promote research of Rett syndrome
• To promote the general welfare of those whose lives are affected by Rett syndrome
• To host conferences, workshops and support group meetings
• To publish a newsletter
• To collect and disseminate information about Rett syndrome
October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month!
Southeastern U.S. Calendar of Events for October, 2012
“Rett Syndrome Awareness Month” in Prattville, Alabama, Proclamation Signing by Mayor
October 3, 2012 – 10:30AM – Wednesday
Prattville Mayor’s Office
Prattville, Alabama
Contact: handsheryl@gmail.com or (334) 201-6718
2nd Annual Georgia Strollathon for Rett Syndrome Research
October 6, 2012 – 10:00AM until 2:00PM – Saturday
Central City Park
Macon, Georgia
http://www.firstgiving.com/rettsyndrome/georgia-strollathon
Contact: Amfp786@yahoo.com or (478) 972-8795
Alabama “Rett Syndrome Awareness Month” Proclamation Signing by Governor
October 9, 2012 – 3:00PM – Tuesday
Alabama State Capitol Building
Montgomery, Alabama
Contact: handsheryl@gmail.com or (334) 201-6718
Blue Sky Girls of Alabama
October 13, 2012 – 9:00AM – Saturday
Alabama State Capitol Building
Montgomery, Alabama
Contact: Slee4al@hotmail.com or (205) 910-2353
Blue Sky Girls of Georgia
October 13, 2012 – 11:00AM – Saturday
Georgia State Capitol Building
Atlanta, Georgia
Contact: Amfp786@yahoo.com or (478) 972-8795
Black Out Rett Syndrome
October 27, 2012 – 7:00PM – Saturday
Celtic Media Center
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
https://irsf.ejoinme.org/?tabid=408561
Contact: (804) 519-6231