Montgomery Township, NJ, declares September 26th as SMA Awareness Day.

Supporting Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (FSMA) has become a major focus for the Kingkiner family since 5th grader Griffen Kingkiner was diagnosed with SMA type 3 almost 2 years ago. With the help of family and friends, an event was sponsored to raise awareness and funding for FSMA, a national organization that is dedicated to finding a treatment and ultimate cure for Spinal Muscular Atrophy.

The event rose over $15,000! Montgomery residents, friends, local businesses and surrounding communities came together to enjoy the event. Participants either walked or rolled around Van Horne Park or Hula Hooped in support of SMA. Many sponsorship donations were contributed as well as personal and corporate donations.

The event also featured silent auction items and over 70 raffle baskets donated by friends, local sports organizations and companies. Local businesses such as Pretzel Factory, Wawa, Bagelicious and Dunkin Donuts provided refreshments. Local Girl Scout Troop 1059, MHS Art Honor Society, MHS Cheerleaders, SBHS cheerleaders and two live bands provided entertainment for the event. The support of family, friends and the entire Montgomery Community was amazing!

SMA is a recessive genetic disorder. 1 in 40 people carry the gene that causes SMA and 1 in 6,000 children are born with SMA. Type I SMA is the #1 genetic killer of infants under 2 years of age. Research over the last 25 years has brought SMA very close to a treatment and cure. Along with the SMA Treatment Acceleration Act before congress, to increase federal funding and grassroots efforts such as this Hoop, Walk-n-Roll, a treatment and ultimate cure for SMA are well within reach. The Kingkiner family appreciates all the support and donations toward this worthwhile cause!

We live in a great community, together, we will find a cure!