Alyssa Merbler, Breanne Byiers, and special education students attend the 18th Annual Walk n' Roll Strollathon for Rett Syndrome

Alyssa Merbler, Breanne Byiers, and students involved with the Department of Educational Psychology's special education program attended this year's Minnesota Strollathon on October 6 in Savage, MN during Rett syndrome awareness month. This is the International Rett Syndrome Foundation's (IRSF) 18th annual Walk n' Roll Strollathon, which brought together over 300 family members and friends of loved ones with Rett syndrome and raised funds that go towards treatments and a cure. The event is chaired by Mary Kallstrom, the mother of Lindsey Kallstrom, who has Rett syndrome (pictured above). 

The UMN team has attended the Minnesota Strollathon every year to show support to the families participating and engaging with their research as well as to talk with new and returning families about current research opportunities. Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurological disorder that leads to severe impairments, so every donation is appreciated. The event has raised over $800k over the last 18 years. Over $50k has been raised this year, so you can visit their page to help the IRSF meet its $70k donation goal.