News

Same But Different, a U.K. nonprofit that uses the arts to bring communities together, is holding a calendar photography competition to raise awareness for rare diseases. Under the theme “A Glimmer of Hope,” the competition is a means to “visually express the hope that exists for people affected by…

The EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases has launched a scholarship fund in the U.S. to support individuals with rare disorders who are pursuing personal goals through training and education. The initial phase of the five-year, $1-million #RAREis Scholarship Fund will include 32 scholarships — each totaling $5,000 —…

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the postponement of a rare disease film festival originally slated for May, its organizers set out to find a new way to bring the films to an audience.  Co-founders Daniel DeFabio and Bo Bigelow, who are both fathers of children with…

A simple urine test using widely available methods may help diagnose people with aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, a study reports.  The study, “Semi-quantitative detection of a vanillactic acid/vanillylmandelic acid ratio in urine is a…

To raise awareness of the rare disease community and celebrate the creativity of its members, the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases is seeking submissions to the 2020 Rare Artist contest. Established in 2010, the contest is open internationally to patients, caregivers, physicians, friends, or anyone else who…

Four biomarkers of aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency have been identified in the cerebrospinal fluid of children with the condition, a new study reports. These disease markers may aid in diagnosis when adjusted for a patient’s age, the researchers said.