Hi everyone! My name is Renee, I am 62 years old, and I am here to raise awareness for RVCL in support of my friend, Laura Friedman, and her sister Fran Jaskot.

RVCL is a rare genetic disease. Only 200 people worldwide have been diagnosed, yet their family has been affected by RVCL for at least 4 generations. In patients with RVCL, the small blood vessels in the body systematically shut down. Typically, within 5-10 years of the onset of symptoms of RVCL, patients die. Sisters, Laura and Fran, were both diagnosed 5 years ago.

When I first met Laura, I was not only inspired by her story, but by her positivity. As someone who has faced my own medical challenges, I have always found Laura's presence to be genuine, dear, and encouraging.

I knew I wanted to give back in some way, and I thought to myself, why not raise awareness by doing what I love most...running. I have always been a runner and I have completed multiple 100 mile races. I run a simple 2 mile loop, 50 times - it's as simple as that!

Sometimes, life throws obstacles your way, but it's important to never give up! Laura is perfect example of that - she is not a quitter and her positivity helps me through my own difficult times.

I am inspired to raise money and awareness for this incredibly rare disease. I hope you all will join in my efforts. Let's do this for Laura and Fran!!

Learn more about RVCL: https://www.med.upenn.edu/rvcl/