Walkathons Raise Awareness of Rare Medical Disorder: Prader-Willi Syndrome

REDONDO BEACH, Calif., April 6, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Walkathons raise awareness of a rare obesity disorder, Prader-Willi Syndrome.

Prader-Willi syndrome impairs growth, causes weak muscles, autistic-like behaviors, behavior problems, and its hallmark symptom – an insatiable appetite no matter how much food is eaten. Unmanaged, PWS causes morbid obesity and premature death. PWS is not an eating disorder; it results from missing genes. No known medication controls or even reduces the drive to eat. People with PWS cannot live independently. Without 24/7 supervision for the entirety of their lives they will die prematurely as a result of choking, stomach rupture, or from complications caused by morbid obesity. Parents and care providers of an individual with PWS experience some of the highest levels of stress.

The 16^th Annual Walking for Prader-Willi Syndrome events provide affected families the opportunity to connect with each other in an atmosphere of fun and acceptance. The general public is invited to enjoy the music, face painting and fun too. The Los Angeles WALK will be held at Griffith Park on April 24; the San Francisco WALK will be held at Crissy Field under the Golden Gate Bridge on June 26.  Registration begins at 10:30 am; the WALK starts at 11:00 am; the fun lasts until 2:00 pm. View our WALK Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMr7qGUNZuI

The WALK events are sponsored by the Prader-Willi California Foundation, the only organization in California dedicated solely to providing education, support and advocacy services to persons with PWS, their families, and the professionals who serve them. For more information visit www.PWCF.org/WalkingForPWS or call the PWCF office 310-372-5053.

Contact: Lisa Graziano, Executive Director                                 
Prader-Willi California Foundation
Office Phone: 310.372.5053
Cell Phone:  310.488.9131
Email: [email protected]  
Web: www.PWCF.org

SOURCE Prader-Willi California Foundation

Related Links

http://www.PWCF.org