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Online Donations |
General Donations
Checks mailed to our PO Box also gratefully
accepted. |
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Thank you!!!
Thank you for your interest in Apert
Syndrome and Apert International, Inc.
Apert Syndrome is a rare craniofacial
syndrome that affects only 1 in 160,000 individuals. It occurs randomly in
all countries, and crosses all racial, ethnic, religious, age, and
socioeconomic boundaries. Apert Syndrome results when the DNA from mother
and father combine, and a single error occurs during this process. The
major symptoms of Apert Syndrome are fingers and toes which are fused
together in single masses; plates in the skull that are fused together
prematurely; and a variety of facial abnormalities. Other symptoms vary
among individuals, and can impact virtually any critical areas such as
breathing, heart, kidney, skeletal, neurological, and neuromuscular
functions. Children born with Apert Syndrome typically endure dozens of
surgeries during their first few years.
Apert children seem to be blessed with the
strength and character to get through all they must endure, and are
usually very happy despite their differences. Modern surgical techniques
have been developed that dramatically restore the functionality taken away
by Apert syndrome and can also provide for a more normal appearance and
heightened self-esteem. |
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| Our organization evolved from an Internet
site developed by Don and Cathie Sears for their daughter, Elizabeth
(Teeter), who has Apert Syndrome. Don and Cathie founded "Teeter's
Page" in 1995 (http://www.apert.org)
and it has developed into the largest family support organization for
Apert Syndrome in the world. The 300 families currently affiliated with
Teeter's Page represent every continent. We encourage you to visit
Teeter's Page, to see firsthand the people your generous contribution can
help. |
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The formation of Apert International, Inc.,
was a natural growth development of this support group. Many of the
families affected by Apert have financial resources that are not adequate
considering the numerous surgeries required. Often one parent may have to
abandon a career in order to care for their Apert child, at a time when
insurance deductibles and co-payments are mounting. Other families are not
lucky enough to have the needed health insurance and must make other
arrangements for surgeries and other care. |
| Our goals at Apert International are to
provide education and information to the general public about Apert
Syndrome, and to provide direct financial and emotional assistance, based
on need, to families affected by Apert Syndrome. Unlike some larger
charities that spend large amounts of money for fundraising and
administrative costs, we have taken a grassroots approach and intend to
remain that way. Our financial goal is to use 98% or more of all monies
received for direct assistance to families. All of our administrative and
fundraising efforts are provided by caring individuals on a volunteer
basis.
We are very proud of our kids and our
adults who have Apert Syndrome. They consistently show perseverance and
strength of character. They endure painful skeletal problems and complex
surgical procedures with smiles. I hope you can help us help them.
Thank you!
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| Sincerely,
Donald A. Sears, President
Apert International, Inc.
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Corporate Information
Current Board of
Directors
501(c)(3)
approval
for more information please
write to
info@apert-international.org
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