For those of you who still need to join our family in this study~

If someone has an ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm, the likelihood that one of their first-degree relatives will have the same condition is at least 20%. Many scientists believe this percentage, in actuality, is even greater. The public must be made aware of this sobering reality. 20% is huge. Other medical education outreaches, such as breast cancer awareness, where the familial likelihood is around 5%, have been very successful in delivering the genetic message to their affected community and to the general public. The John Ritter Foundation’s outreach programs, whether it is delivered family by family or by the multimedia efforts which are now beginning to be implemented, are getting the life saving information about aortic dissection out there. We can now predict and prevent Aortic Dissection in many cases. Your family history and DNA contribute valuable information to the scientific and medical community. You could make a big difference in how your family and other families take care of their health. Your DNA may hold the key to identifying one of the yet to be identified genes that are responsible for this condition. Or, you may carry one of the 4 genes that have already been identified for Familial Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection. If someone is found to be a carrier of one of the known genes or has a family history of Aneurysm and dissection, a much more frequent scanning schedule is required to make sure their Aorta's size falls within a normal range. The men and women devoted to shining a light on the Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection trait need your DNA to continue their work. This is so "do-able" that it is already being done. So, join our family in this study, please.

All first degree relatives of survivors or victims of an aortic dissection should be scanned for an aneurysm of their aorta. In the meantime, I urge you to call Ellen Regalado, the genetic councilor, to get a DNA sample kit (easy-just spit in the thingy and send it back in the paid envelope) and to go over your family history with her. This is very valuable info for you and your family.

Ellen's Email is: ellen.s.regalado@uth.tmc.edu

Ellen's phone # is: 713-500-6723
*leave a message with your contact info if she does not answer.

Please mention the John Ritter Foundation to anyone you contact and let them know that I personally asked you to call. This should fast-track you a bit. Let me know if you are having trouble getting through or getting a call back.