I have a cousin with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). For those in the Social Security Administration unaware of this condition, this genetic syndrome affects the 15th chromosome; it affects 1:15,000 (both sexes, all races). The condition's major characteristics include low muscle tone, hypogonadism, insatiable appetites, morbid obesity, cognitive impairments, and difficult behaviors.

There is an estimated 30,000 people in the United States that suffer with Prader-Willi Syndrome, a chronic insatiable feeling of hunger and low metabolism affect their daily lives. These specific factors lead to excessive eating and life threatening obesity. Only with constant supervision and care from birth to adulthood can an individual with Prader-Willi Syndrome avoid a lifetime of chronic health issues, social crises and premature death. It is my strong belief that this condition should be added to the growing list of genetic conditions that leave its victims with chronic disabilities. Please consider my request. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Landry

Cousin to Cameron who is 4 with PWS