Laugh It Up- Pittsburgh, April 1, 2016

Laugh It Up- Pittsburgh, April 1, 2016

On April 1, 2016, the Blake, Frist, and Waldeck families came together in an attempt to increase awareness of Smith-Magenis Syndrome and to help change the lives affected by the syndrome by raising much-needed research money.

There were 105 guests on hand at the Pittsburgh Improv Comedy Club in Homestead, Pennsylvania. The event raised over $7,500. This far exceeded their fundraising goal of $5,000, and through social media and pre‑event discussions, they were able to share not only facts but also the name Smith-Magenis Syndrome itself with hundreds of people day after day.

Two families that had relatives with SMS in other states heard about the event from Facebook and reached out to connect and share their support. Many others that could not make an appearance at the event wished them well and followed up on social media.

Through sharing this event and opportunity to give with friends, neighbors, and their communities, the Blake, Frist, and Waldeck families embraced the disorder, and at the same time, shared the most beautiful parts of their daughters with those who typically would not get the chance.