Dear Friends,
We, at the Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), are deeply
saddened to inform you of the passing of Keith Andrus on January 22,
2010. Keith was the beloved son of FARA President Ron Bartek and his
wife Raychel. Keith's diagnosis of Friedreich's ataxia inspired Raychel
and Ron to pick up that torch, joining him in his fight, and found FARA.
Even during the final and very challenging months of Keith's life he
courageously continued to not only advocate for himself but for others
with FA as he left no stone unturned exploring advanced and experimental
treatment options. Keith also made the decision to make the ultimate
contribution to research at the end of his life with the donation of his
tissues so that research will continue. Because of Keith many thousands
have hope for a treatment for FA. Thank you, Keith.
We often quote Ron as saying, "Acting alone there is little any of us
can accomplish whereas acting together there is little we will not
accomplish." These words are deeply rooted in the FARA culture- the way
we pursue treatments and a cure for FA, and today they also serve as a
source of comfort in this time of great sadness. While our hearts break
for the Andrus/ Bartek Family, we feel the collective strength of our
greater FA family. You stand beside us in our work every day. You hold
us up. You push us forward. In this time of grief, you are present and
our commitment to and sense of urgency for the FARA mission does not
waiver.
If you wish to extend personal condolences to the Barteks, you can do so
by mail at: 4505 Wakefield Drive, Annandale, VA 22003 A memorial service
will be held on Saturday January 30, 2010 at 11am at St. Matthew's
Methodist Church, 8617 Little River Turnpike; Annandale, VA 22003-3604.
At Keith's request, FARA has established a memorial fund, designated to
cardiac research in FA, for contributions made in Keith's memory.
We are grateful to Ron, Raychel and Keith for making their journey with
FA into a greater alliance of families and for the FA research progress
born out of that alliance.
Sincerely,
The FARA Board of Directors & Staff
About FARA
The Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance's (FARA) mission is to marshal
and focus the resources and relationships needed to cure FA by raising
funds for research, promoting public awareness, and aligning scientists,
patients, clinicians, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies and
other organizations dedicated to curing FA and related diseases.
www.CureFA.org
Contact
Jennifer Farmer
Executive Director, Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance
(484) 875 3015
info@curefa.org
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