Bowling event to aid Barth Foundation

Warwick, N.Y. - The Barth Syndrome Foundation will hold its second annual bowling fund-raiser from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15, at Frontier Lanes in Warwick, N.Y. The event’s organizers, John and Liz Higgins, hope to raise at least $5,000 to benefit the foundation. Barth Syndrome is a rare, X-linked genetic disorder that is passed from mother to son. Individuals with Barth Syndrome suffer from weak hearts, weak immune systems, weak muscle tone and extreme fatigue. Currently, the Barth Syndrome Foundation knows of 95 young men and boys in the world who have this disorder, including the Higgins’ 12-year-old son, Jack. Although rare, recent studies of Barth Syndrome suggest that it may be more common than originally thought. It can be potentially fatal, especially during the first five years of life. While there is no cure, an early and accurate diagnosis can greatly improve the chance of survival for the affected individual. The Barth Syndrome Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Perry, Fla., with affiliates in Canada, South Africa and the United Kingdom. In five years, it has funded 14 research grants, hosted two international family and scientific symposia, which included clinical evaluations at no cost to families, and provided services to educate health care professionals and affected families about Barth Syndrome. Cost for the fund-raiser is $15 per bowler, which includes three games, snacks, soda and pizza. For information, call 973-764-6256, or e-mail jhiggins@barthsyndrome.org, or go online to barthsyndrome.org.