Schnee Way

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Bringing the latest NF news to you
PAUSE FOR A CAUSE
Schnee Way wishes to recognize people attempting to raise money for NF awareness and research.
~ Charity ~
About my charity:

Children's Tumor Foundation
The NF Marathon Team Program is an exciting way of supporting NF research and Children's Tumor Foundation programs. Individuals sign up to participate in an established marathon as part of the NF Marathon Team. Participants receive training in fundraising and have goals to raise financial support for the NF cause. Each walker/runner can qualify for free transportation, lodging and more for the marathon weekend by raising a certain amount in donations. In addition to raising much-needed funds for NF research and Children's Tumor Foundation programs, becoming a member or donor on the NF Marathon Team helps spread NF awareness. The NF Marathon Team Program also needs volunteers in the marathon cities to help with NF Team transport and to provide support during the marathon.


~ Participant ~
 ~ Background ~

Matthew Leibowitz
After spinal surgery due to NF



"The Passion To Find A Cure For Neurofibromatosis"

Have you ever had a passion? A passion to complete a task no matter what; no matter how many times you may slip, fall, or encounter a hurdle, you would still complete that task! Crossing that finish line! Do you remember the feeling of accomplishment; elation? Was it the college degree you always wanted, or a particular promotion at your job? Or maybe it was running or walking a marathon. Sometime in your life you can relate to this feeling that burns within your soul!

My name is Matthew and I have a disorder called Neurofibromatosis. Neurofibromatosis (commonly known as NF), is a genetic disorder that causes the growth of tumors. The tumors grow along various types of nerves and on the brain, spinal cord, soft tissue organs, the bones and skin. Neurofibromatosis can cause vision loss, hearing loss, bone deformities, malignant cancer, learning disabilities, paralysis and death. NF occurs in 1 in 4,000 births. It can be passed on or can result from a spontaneous gene mutation. There is no cure or treatment for Neurofibromatosis. Surgery is often not an option and tumors have been known to grow back after removal. Research over the past few years have identified and isolated the DNA gene that causes Neurofibromatosis and there is hope that one day, effective treatment and a cure will be found for NF. Research is the only way this will be accomplished!

I am part of the NF Marathon Team, which is committed to running/walking marathons to raise funds through the donations of people such as yourself, which will one day lead to a cure. Last Labor Day, I was granted permission to participate in walking the last mile (5,280 feet) of the Virginia Beach Rock 'N' Roll 1/2 Marathon. Because of NF, I am required to use crutches to walk. For long distance walking, I use a walker. I trained several months to walk this mile and completed my passion and crossed that finish line. At the same time, I was able to raise funds by people sponsoring me - all of which goes toward research to find a cure.

This is where I ask for your help. On June 5th, 2005, I will attempt, with my walker, to walk the last 5 miles of the San Diego Rock 'N' Roll Marathon! This is again for my passion to raise funds and awareness. This is also for the thousands of little children who have NF. A child should grow up playing baseball, soccer, dancing, living the innocence and magic of childhood...not through countless surgeries, hospitals, exams, etc.

By making a charitable donation through this website, you will become a part of a team that is committed to finding a cure. If you don't feel comfortable donating through a website, you can send a donation - made payable to CTF (Children's Tumor Foundation, formally known as National Neurofibromatosis Foundation) directly to:

NF Marathon Team
Children's Tumor Foundation
95 Pine Street, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10005
* On the check, please note:
'for Matthew Leibowitz - ID# 1593'.

All checks must be made payable to CTF. All gifts are 100% tax deductable and are greatly appreciated - more than words can say. Please help in finding a cure for Neurofibromatosis!