Neurofibromatosis..... I am reminded everyday of my battle wth Neurofibromatosis. My walker, My leg braces, the constant pain and the often unpredictability of Neurofibromatosis. Numerous sugeries, including 2 spinal surgeries and several inoperable tumors. Yet I remain steadfast and determined. I love life, each day is a new day full of hopes, full of dreams. A cure for Neurofibromatosis are my hopes and dreams.

Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes the growth of tumors. These tumors grow along various types of nerves and on the brain, spinal cord, soft tissue organs, the bone and skin. Neurofibromatosis causes vision loss, hearing loss, bone deformities, malignant cancer, learning disabilities, paralysis and death. Neurofibromatosis occurs 1 in 4,000 births, that means Neurofibromatosis is more common that Cystic Fibrosis, Duchene Muscular Dystrophy, and Huntington's disease combined! Due to complexity of the tumors, surgery is often not an option and even when tumors are removed, have a strong possibility of growing back.

The only way a cure will be found is through reasearch. Researcher's have identified and isolated the gene that cause Neurofibromatosis. People such as myself, families, friends of those who have Neurofibromatosis are excited that we are very close to effective treatment and a cure will be found.

Since 2004, I have been a proud member of the Neurofibromatosis Marathon Team. We are committed and determined to run/walk in marathons to generate, fuel public awareness and yes, raise funds- All of which goes toward research. I have with my walker and leg braces participated in several marathons, all of which has been a great success!

My challenge is to you! Become a part of my passion, determination, to find a cure for Neurofibromatosis. On June 3, 2007, the Neurofibromatosis Marathon Team will be running/walking in the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon. I will attempt with my walker to walk the last 5 miles of this marathon. Are you excited to join this passion? By making a charitable donation through this website, you become part of this passsion, determination to find a cure for Neurofibromatosis. No contrbution is too small.

This site is totally secure. Don't feel comfortable donating through a website? you can send your donation- made payable to Children's Tumor Foundation to the address below.

Children's Tumor Foundation
Att- NF Marathon Team
95 Pine Street, 16th floor
New York, NY 10005

IMPORTANT- On your check please note: For Matthew Leibowitz ID# SD-2093-07 All checks must be made payable to CTF. All gifts are 100% tax deductible and greatly appreciated.

So take a stand join me in helping find a cure for Neurofibromatosis and of course share this site with all friends and family.

(The Children's Tumor Foundation is formerly known as the National Neurofibromatosis Foundation)