GENESEO, Illinois-- October is commonly known as "Breast Cancer Awareness Month." But it's a month that also raises awareness for a lesser known cause: Rett Syndrome.
This morning, 125 runners, walkers, and strollers came together at Geneseo Middle School for a 5K this morning to raise money and awareness for Retts.
Retts is a disease that affects little girls before they turn 2. When a specific gene in their body doesn't get a specific protein. When this happens, these little girls, who up until then are able to speak, crawl, and toddle around, lose control of their muscles. Many also lose the ability to speak. Several moms who have girls with Retts were at the walk today and say that research shows a cure is possible. But for now, there is something everyone can do to help.
Jenn Johnson, one of the walk's organizers explains, "When you see girls with Retts, or any diability, don't be afraid to go up to and talk to them. They love that. They're in there and even if they can't respond they want you to recognize them and know they have a voice even if they can't use it."
Eight of today's runners are training for the Disney World Princess Half Marathon this February, which they're also using as a fundraiser for Retts.