Drinking (just tasting) for a cause!

I am always up to supporting a great cause. Recently, I was fortunate to experience an amazing wine tasting event at Valbella Restaurant in the Meat Packing District in New York City. David Ghatanfard, Owner of the famous restaurant is committed to hosting an annual fundraiser to benefit The National Fragile X Foundation.

The National Fragile X Foundation was founded in 1984 to support individuals with Fragile X syndrome (FXS), their families, and the professionals who work with them. The organization offers a toll-free phone line and email support; educational through an extensive website, quarterly journal and other publications; and awareness activities throughout the country.

What is Fragile X?

Fragile X is a family of conditions associated with changes in the Fragile X gene. The gene can be normal, but it can also exhibit a "premutation" or a "full mutation." When a premutation or full mutation is present, it can result in a Fragile X-associated condition. These include:

- Fragile X syndrome (FXS): An inherited condition affecting intellectual, behavioral and social development. It occurs in both males and females who have full mutation of the FMR1 gene.

- Fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI): A condition affecting ovarian function that occurs in some adult females who have a premutation of the FMR1 gene.

- Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS): An adult (over 50 years of age) neurological condition causing tremors, memory and balance problems. It occurs in some adult carriers (more commonly in males).

Next year, Flipbags will be part of this event.

For more information contact:

The National Fragile X Foundation

1-800-688-8765

P.O. Box 37 - Walnut Creek, CA 94597

WWW.FRAGILEX.ORG