Blechman Foundation for Parkinson's Research Launches New York City Campaign with Spring Fundraiser
Online, March 18, 2014 (Newswire.com) - The Blechman Foundation for Parkinson's Research will hold its first New York City fundraiser on Wednesday, April 30, 2014, at STK Meatpacking, 26 Little West 12th St., from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. At the event, Dr. J. Timothy Greenamyre, Chair, Blechman Foundation Scientific Advisory Committee, will discuss the latest findings surrounding neuroprotective research, a groundbreaking area of discovery which shows great promise in relieving the suffering of patients with Parkinson's disease.
The Blechman Foundation's mission is to support research to identify and develop effective neuroprotective drugs with the goal of bringing them to market as soon as possible. Neuroprotective research is designed to develop or enhance the brain's ability to ward off the progression of PD. Tickets to the event are available online at www.blechmanfoundation.org or call 212-796-1935. For information about the Blechman Foundation, visit the foundation's website or email contact_us@blechmanfoundation.org
The Blechman Foundation was launched as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2012 by sister and brother Melissa and David Blechman to honor their mother, as well as help advance innovative research for Parkinson's disease. To raise money, the foundation has sponsored community-based programs such as dance classes geared toward people with PD, as well as social events in major U.S. cities.
The Blechmans grew up in South Florida and said their inspiration for the foundation is their mother, Nancy, who was diagnosed with the disease at the age of 50.
"In two years, we have awarded grants exceeding $50,000 to two excellent research and medical institutions: MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease (MIND) and University of Pittsburgh Institute of Neurodegenerative Diseases (PIND)," Melissa Blechman said. "Today, there are substantial advances in our understanding of the biological factors involved in PD. The Foundation is focusing its efforts to support research into studying the molecular mechanisms that kill nerve cells in patients with PD. We're drilling down pretty far for answers."
Slowing or halting the degeneration of nerve cells that die in PD patients would provide hope to millions of people around the world, said Blechman.
The fundraiser will include a silent auction featuring first-rate and unique items for sale as well as hors d'oeurves and cocktails. Auction items include: weekend getaway to Berkshire-area spa and wellness center; premium house seats to two Broadway shows with signed memorabilia; a rare wine collection; spin class gift certificates; and health and beauty certificates, among others. ###