An orphan disease is defined as a condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people nationwide. This includes diseases as familiar as Cystic Fibrosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease and Galactosemia. Some diseases have patient populations of fewer than a hundred. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there are approximately 7,000 rare diseases affecting between 25 and 30 million Americans. This equates to 1 in 10 Americans, or one on every elevator and four on every bus. In addition, 95% of rare diseases have no FDA approved treatment options available.
We will identify leading researchers whose promising work could lead to treatments and cures for orphan diseases. You can rest assured that every dollar we raise will be thoughtfully spent.
Jim and Maria Kelly founded The Orphan Disease Collective in 2019 as their daughter was born with a rare disease with no cure. In addition to the foundation, Jim is a Chicago Firefighter and business owner focusing on business brokering and consulting. Jim is also a Marine Corps veteran having served from 2004-2010. Maria is a Public High School Teacher and teaches Culinary Arts.
You can help by following this link to donate. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to utilize the contact form below and we’ll be in touch. The Orphan Disease Collective would appreciate your financial donation of any amount. We will send you a receipt for tax purposes as soon as your donation processes.