How the Fernandez Family is Shining a Light on PMD

The words of Dutch philosopher, Desiderius Erasmus, “Give light, and the darkness will disappear of itself” bring the PMD community to mind. We often mention how the smiles of our children light up our lives. 

In one family, the light of a child’s smile has extended into their community. 

The Fernandez family lives in the Village of Haverstraw, NY. Mom, Elaine, works as a Notary and Receptionist for the Village office. Her son, Liam, is her little sunshine. He is five years old and lives with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease. 

As a member of the PMD community, Elaine is an advocate both for her son and the work that the PMD Foundation accomplishes. She also understands that every little bit helps. 

The Village of Haverstraw, on behalf of its residents, has donated $269.80 to the PMD Foundation.

The donation is borne of community goodwill. Inspired by the Foundation and her son, Liam, Elaine initiated the collection. In addition to increasing awareness of the disease, the donation opportunity has also been wonderfully supported by the Village.

“We do not charge the public for the notary services,” Elaine said. “Instead, we ask for a $2.00 donation to the Foundation. Every few months, we gather what we have collected and mail it in!” 

As a 501(c)3 organization, the PMD Foundation survives on donations from the community to serve those affected by PMD. The Foundation provides education, research, service, and advocacy to families affected by Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease and Pelizaeus-Merzbacher-like disease. 

Would you like to make your own donation to support the PMD Foundation? Please make your donation here or reach out to us at contact@pmdfoundation.com to discuss giving opportunities.