Wright State Athletics Joins The Fight To Cure HD
12/29/2014 5:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Wright State Athletics has joined the fight against Huntington's Disease, an congenital brain disorder that results in the progressive loss of both mental capacities and physical control. The Raiders have teamed with former WSU baseball standout and current Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim pitcher Joe Smith and his family who are raising awareness and research funds to find a cure for HD.
Smith's grandmother suffered from the disease. His mother, Lee, is currently battling HD.
“Joe and his parents, Mike and Lee, have been a part of the Wright State family since Joe first came to campus more than a decade ago”, said WSU Director of Athletics Bob Grant. “When we see members of our family who are in a battle like the one the Smiths are in, we are eager to join the fight.”
Wright State will be raising awareness and funds for HD research beginning on Wednesday, January 14, when the Raiders' men's basketball team hosts Cleveland State. The game will feature Smith and his fiancé, Allie LaForce from CBS Sports, meeting fans for autographs and photos on the party deck above section 201 from 6:00-7:00 pm. The men's basketball team will be wearing blue shoes to show their support, and Wright State Athletics will donate $1 to the Cleveland Clinic “Help Cure HD” Research Fund for every person attending the game.
“My family and I are grateful for all of the support the Raider family is contributing to fight this disease that has had a great effect on our family,” said Smith. “We are looking forward to working with WSU and Wright State fans to help reach our goals of raising awareness of HD, and raising $2 million for HD research.”
Wright State Athletics will continue to raise awareness and funds after the game, including an event at a WSU baseball game this season.
For more information, please see the following website:
The Smith's Story (www.helpcurehd.com)
Tickets for the game start at only $7, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.
