The ASF National Walk is our largest fundraiser, raising money for research into treatments for AS, as well as for family services for those affected by Angelman syndrome. This event is spearheaded by our office, but carried out by hundreds of volunteers throughout the country. Families love this event, as it gives them a chance to meet and revisit other Angelman families. We usually see between 8,000 and 10,000 people nationwide at 45-50 locations.

Angelman syndrome (AS) is a rare neuro-genetic disorder that occurs in one in 15,000 live births or 500,000 people worldwide. It is caused by a loss of function of the UBE3A gene in the 15th chromosome. People with AS have developmental problems that become noticeable by the age of 6 – 12 months. Other common signs and symptoms usually appear in early childhood like walking and balance disorders, gastrointestinal issues, seizures and little to no speech.