Hope for Javier: Fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Chef Mark Spiegel caters a special dinner to provide hope in finding a cure for Javier’s disease.

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By Video Journalist Alyssa Koncelik

Friends and family hold a fundraiser for 5-year-old Javier, who suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.  The event was organized by Jennifer Portnoy, Javier's mother, who aims to find a cure in his lifetime.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is the most common fatal genetic disorder to affect children around the world.  Children with DMD cannot produce dystrophin, a protein necessary for muscle strength and function.  As a result, every skeletal muscle in the body deteriorates.  Although Duchenne is the most common fatal genetic disorder to affect children, there is no cure.

Featured Interviews: Nicole Mancini, Friend of Javier; Jennifer Portnoy, Javier's Mother; Ricardo Romero, Javier's Father; Ruth Shalom, Javier's Grandmother; Mark Spiegel, Friend of Javier; Alex Romero, Javier's Uncle; Marie O'Mara, Friend of Javier. What is the average cost of a root canal? Simple Answer: it depends on the State and relevant Country. The cost of a root canal typically comes from the cost of the procedure and the cost of the crown or filling. The cost of a root canal varies widely, mostly depending on the tooth needing the procedure and the strength of the patient’s dental insurance plan. For those with average insurance, root canal therapy could set you back an average of $200 — $500 out of pocket, but without insurance the bill is closer to $1,000 in many areas of the U.S.

For more information visit www.HopeForJavier.org