Since Mrs. Estevez’s son Sebastian’s diagnosis of Hunter Syndrome, people from around the community have contributed to Project Alive’s efforts to fund the cure. Project Alive’s mission to cure Hunter Syndrome has already raised almost $2 million of the $2.5 million needed to fund the clinical trial. In early June 2018, Shark Tank star Mark Cuban donated $250,000 to Project Alive, making the goal even more attainable.
Once funded, the trial will take place as soon as possible. Project Alive has already accomplished many major steps. In order to run a clinical trial, the Food and Drug Administration requires investigational new drug clearance. Project Alive has already submitted the application, and the FDA has cleared it, meaning Project Alive is one step closer to the trial. The drug development has already begun, making money the main factor standing in the way of the trials.
Project Alive is inching closer to the goal everyday through events, fundraisers and donations. On Sept. 29, the Hollywood Lions Club hosted the 2nd Annual Hollywood Lions Gala and Masquerade Ball at the Hollywood Beach Marriott. All proceeds from this event benefitted Project Alive.
National Honor Society will be hosting a fundraiser on Oct. 9 at Chipotle, a popular Mexican fast-food chain. 33 percent of the proceeds will go directly to Project Alive.
Ride for Project Alive, an event occurring from Oct. 20 through Nov. 11, will raise money through cycling. Cyclists will bike over 1200 miles in three weeks to raise money for Project Alive. The event starts in Charlotte, N.C. and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Visit https://ride.projectalive.org/ for more information on how you can volunteer or donate.
Care for the Rare, a relatively new club to Heritage, meets alternating Thursdays in room 9106 at 3:10. They have organized several Project Alive fundraisers in the past, and would love new members and new ideas this year. To help Project Alive, you can donate to the cause or participate in any of their upcoming events.
