CLEVELAND — Neurofibromatosis is a group of genetic disorders that can affect your brain, spinal cord, nerves and skin.
According to the American Caner Society, “NF1” as it’s commonly referred to, affects thousands around the country.
Sarah Powlison, Walk Director, says, “Everyone you meet has a story, as rich and complex as your own that you know nothing about.”
Powlison has lived with NF since birth. She says it’s a genetic disorder, and it affects one out of every 2500 individuals.
“Each disorder does something slightly different things, but they all can cause tumors to grow on the nerves all throughout the body. They can cause blindness, deafness, cognitive impairment, horrific pain, disfigurement, even just cosmetic changes,” said Powlison.
This is the second year they have held this walk to bring awareness to the disorder.
Residents can be diagnosed at birth or later throughout their lives.
Quentin Laret says seeing this much support year after year is amazing, just watching his community grow each day.
“It’s nice to see all the new faces here. You see your regulars, but all the new faces mean someone new story is being told. It could be a friend of a friend, but their story ...