Emma Coen, senior at AMHS, developed an interest in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) after meeting a 2-year-old boy named Miller who inspired her to organize the #GOMILLERGO 5K Run+Walk+Roll. She describes Miller as having “the brightest smile and the best laugh!” She surpassed her goal of $20,000 and raised over $30,000 for SMA. All of the profits will be donated to gene replacement research in hopes of curing the disorder.

The 5K took place on August 23 at James Island County Park. Emma successfully raised both awareness and money for SMA. Her efforts are greatly appreciated by the families who are affected by SMA and admired by all who attended the 5K. Hopefully we are one step closer to finding a cure for Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is caused when a person is born without the SMN1 gene. This gene builds proteins that form the nerves in muscles that receive signals from the brain. Because of this people with SMA lose control of their voluntary muscles and eventually their involuntary muscles also. Some who have this disorder have trouble, or are unable to, sit up, eat, and complete common everyday tasks unassisted. SMA is currently the #1 genetic cause of infantile death in the United States.