Genetic Disorders UK: Emergency Coronavirus appeal

Article in association with Genetic Disorders UK

Children and adults with genetic disorders are some of the most vulnerable in our society, precisely those who coronavirus will hit hardest. They are feeling particularly anxious and isolated at this time. It has never been more important for our genetic disorder community to have somewhere to turn to for help. Our helpline is open as normal, proving free, confidential advice and support on all genetic disorders to patients and their families.

At the same time GDUK is faced with an enormous challenge. 90% of our income comes from people who take part in fundraising events – many of which have been postponed or cannot take place in their normal format because of social distancing.

GDUK is a small charity and as such we are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in our income. A big drop in our fundraising could prevent us running our helpline. We can only run our helpline because of the kindness and generosity of our supporters. During a crisis, calls increase. With your support, GDUK will be able to answer all those calls and help all those in need.

That’s why we are asking you to donate to help keep our helpline open and running during this most challenging of time for us all.

Please DONATE what you can.

£25 will pay for one hour of specialist telephone helpline advice for parents caring for a child with a genetic disorder

Louie, age 7, was born with a life-limiting genetic disorder called Spinal Muscular Atrophy with respiratory distress, which affects all the muscles in his body. Louie is paralysed from the neck own and needs a ventilator to breathe, Louie’s mum must use hand sanitiser before and after changing his airway tube – it’s a vital and regular tool of her care routine to prevent infection.