In 2016 alone, the Jacob's Run, Walk and Roll fundraiser has raised more than $53,000 towards research and drug discovery programs for babies, children and teens diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). On April 3, teams will meet up at the South County Regional Park, Sunset Cove Pavilion at 9:30 in the morning for a butterfly release and fun run/walk, raising money and honoring the lives of SMA patients. The event will be followed by family friendly entertainment and the goal is to raise $100,000.
The event is hosted by the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation, which was created by Gunster attorney Adi Rappoport and his wife Shaina. The couple lost their 9-month old son Jacob, pictured below, to the disease in 2002 and they have pledged their lives to finding a cure. Although they miss their son every minute of every day, they have chosen to honor his memory by joining the quest for a cure, raising money and caring for families who are directly impacted by SMA.
The foundation has made a difference for families whose babies are diagnosed with SMA by providing care packages through Cure SMA to every family of a newly diagnosed Type 1 baby. The foundation also sponsors the annual Cure SMA conference, including funding programs and providing childcare. According to Adi Rappoport, the foundation has raised more than $1.5 million dollars over the course of 13 years. 
To join the Run, Walk and Roll fundraiser, consider joining a team or forming a new one. The suggested fundraising amount per team is $1,000. Donations can also be made to the organization, either directly or towards a team, on the Cure SMA website.
Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic mutation that prevents nerve cells from functioning properly, causing severe and often fatal muscle weakness. There are four types of SMA and they are based on the age of onset and the physical growth milestones of the patient. The disease affects important survival functions such as breathing and swallowing, but not social or learning capabilities.
Pictured above: Runners gathered at the Jacob's Run, Walk and Roll fundraiser with their co-workers, friends and families to raise money for the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation.
