Jake's Marathon Fundraiser to Cure GSD

I was born with an orphan disease called Glycogen Storage Disease Type Ia, affecting only 6000 people worldwide. The condition manifests itself in the form of an inability to release glycogen from the liver due to a missing enzyme. This causes chronic hypoglycemia among a slew of other things, and when untreated can lead to a failure to thrive, obesity, seizures and even death. Treatment consists of cornstarch taken orally at set times around the clock to keep blood sugars stable, and it is a lifestyle where a span of just 10 minutes can determine whether or not you live or die.

Having Glycogen Storage Disease can make it incredibly difficult to do any day-to-day activities, but that has not stopped me or others. I am currently a junior at in college pursuing an engineering degree just like many other students. I am also running my first marathon - untested waters within the community of GSD in order to defy the odds and show that we can do whatever anyone else can. This race is the Humana Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon taking place on April 24.

I'm raising money to benefit The Children's Fund for Glycogen Storage Disease Research, and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.



My family and I after a half-marathon in 2017



More information about The Children's Fund for Glycogen Storage Disease Research: The Children's Fund for Glycogen Storage Disease Research is committed to funding research so that children born with Glycogen Storage Disease, Type 1 (GSD1) will benefit from early detection, treatment, and an eventual cure. Since 2002, we have granted awards to the most promising researchers and institutions in the field. We are run by volunteers so virtually ever dollar we raise is used to support our mission. 100% of your donations will help people with GSD1. We are grateful for your support.