February 21, 2014

Dear Sir,

Marfan Syndrome is a little-known but life-threatening condition that affects people. February is Marfan Awareness Month and to raise awareness about this condition and alert people who may be at risk, we, along with The Marfan Foundation are screening the documentary film In My Hands: A Story of Marfan Syndrome on Thursday, March 6, 2014. The 56-minute film will be shown at The Bermuda College Library at 6pm and followed by a Q&A session. It is open to the public.

In My Hands tells the inspirational story of several children and adults affected by Marfan syndrome and the challenges they face. It features the Tony Award winning actress, dancer and choreographer Ann Reinking, whose son Chris has Marfan syndrome. People who have Marfan syndrome are often tall and lanky, with disproportionately long arms and legs, an indented or protruding chest bone, scoliosis, flat feet, and a number of other characteristics. They also have a fragile aorta that requires monitoring, medication and, often, surgery. We urge anyone with these characteristics to attend the screening or visit www.marfan.org to learn more. Diagnosed and treated, people with Marfan syndrome can live a normal lifespan. Undiagnosed, they are at risk of an early, sudden death.

Thank you for your attention to this important health issue. It could save a life.

Regards,

Martha and Naimah Frith