Yesterday, we accompanied our pro bono client, The Progeria Research Foundation (PRF), to a taping of The Dr. Oz Show at NBC Studios in New York. You know, 30 Rock.
(From left to right) Genetics Expert Jeffrey Innis, MD, PhD, Mott Children’s Hospital, University of Michigan; Television’s Dr. Oz; John Seng, President, Spectrum
Spectrum has worked closely with PRF since 2003 to raise awareness of Progeria, a rare, and thus far incurable disease that causes rapid aging among children. Most children live no longer than 20 years.
PRF’s mission? Find an effective treatment and cure for Progeria and its aging related disorders. Stay tuned to our blog and Twitter feed for the official air date for The Dr. Oz Show in the upcoming weeks.
Our scheduling of PRF spokespersons for today’s taping is but one of the many exciting events and initiatives in which PRF and Spectrum have partnered over the years. Just four months ago, we launched the “Find the Other 150″ Campaign, http://www.findtheother150.org (read my previous blog here). While PRF has connected with only 62 children with Progeria worldwide, researchers estimate about another 150 unidentified children with Progeria live in the world today. The campaign requests that anyone who knows or treats a child with Progeria-like characteristics visit the campaign’s Web site.
Due to our joint efforts thus far, PRF has received dozens of inquiries, and several children may be positively diagnosed. Each child who is brought forth could benefit from the medical services and unique care that PRF provides.
Spectrum and PRF are utilizing all resources available, from strategically capitalizing on the power of digital resources for “Find the Other 150,” to working with media superheroes like Dr. Oz to forge ahead. Because by using multiple channels to raise awareness about PRF and its commitment to finding an effective treatment and cure, we can continue to make an international impact. This is why I remain passionate about communications – because as the PR industry evolves, Spectrum pushes the limits to help our clients achieve their goals in ways previously thought impossible.
And if we can help make a difference in the lives of children with a rare disease, and their families, that’s pretty good payback.
Tags: Progeria, Progeria Research Foundation
Congrats John! Great mission!
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