GAINESVILLE - When Mike Briggs, President-Elect for Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc. (FIRST) was approached by a scouting crew to use his home on Lake Lanier for an upcoming movie, the answer was simple.
"I told them they were free to film at my home, as long as they agreed to donate all of the rental fees associated with the use of my property to FIRST," said Briggs, who became President of FIRST this month. "When the producers heard that, they decided to make the donation larger and have donated $35,000 to the Foundation. We couldn't be more thrilled."
Filming wrapped up recently, and stars on the set, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, had a meet and greet with Briggs' grandson Adam Klafter, who is affected with epidermolytic ichthyosis. The movie, "Ten" is slated for release next year.
"Although there is no known cure for this disease, donations such as this will assist us to fund research to help us not only get closer to a cure, but to better manage the disorder," said Jean Pickford, Executive Director of FIRST.
According to FIRST, each year, more than 16,000 babies are born with some form of ichthyosis. This disease affects people of all ages, races and gender. The disease usually presents at birth, or within the first year, and continues to affect patients throughout their lifetime.
About the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc.
The Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, Inc.® (FIRST) is the only nonprofit foundation in the United States dedicated to families affected by the rare skin disorder ichthyosis, which affects approximately 300 babies each year. FIRST educates, inspires, and connects those touched by ichthyosis and related disorders through emotional support, information, advocacy, and has supported more than $1.4 million in research funding for better treatments and eventual cures. For more information, call toll-free at1.800.545.3286 or visit www.firstskinfoundation.org.
Tuesday
April 23rd, 2024
5:38PM
