Support Our Work
Ataxia is a relentless group of neurodegenerative disorders that gradually impair coordination, balance, speech, and mobility. Though these diseases profoundly affect patients and families, they remain underfunded. Philanthropic donations support the Denning Ataxia Center, with the Denning’ underlying visionary philanthropy, and we invite others to support the Center’s mission.
The Opal Lab's ataxia research is also supported by private philanthropy. While every source of funding is important, private philanthropy is especially vital to accelerating our progress in the understanding of the causes of ataxia and development of therapies to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. This includes:
- Preclinical testing in animal models to evaluate potential therapies before they reach patients
- Access to advanced imaging and microscopy, critical for tracking disease progression and therapeutic response at the cellular level
- Essential laboratory equipment that allow experiments to progress without delay
- Pilot studies that lay the groundwork for major discoveries
- Development of biomarkers and clinical tools crucial to design and launch clinical trials
- Expanded access to care, including expert consultations, genetic testing, and counseling
- Training the next generation of researchers dedicated to neurodegenerative disease
Contribute to sustaining the momentum of the Opal Lab with the giving options available below. Philanthropy is not just a gift—it’s an investment in a future without ataxia.
Contact Andrew P. Christopherson, assistant dean for development at Feinberg School of Medicine, for more information on supporting brain health.
Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Development & Alumni Relations
420 E. Superior St.
Arthur J. Rubloff Building, 9th Floor
Chicago, IL 60611
312-503-3088
andrew.christopherson@northwestern.edu