FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VHL is in the Genes of Amazing People

Boston, Mass., May 12, 2008 – von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) knows no racial, geographic or age limits. VHL impacts people the world over by causing a VHL patient’s body to create cysts or tumors in numerous parts of the body.  While people affected by VHL may have to undergo screenings and tests, or may be limited is some sense, on thing it is not capable of is keeping people from being AMAZING!

VHL is a genetic condition that can impact a person’s lifestyle, but it can also be empowering and drive people into action or to embrace life and all that it has to offer. Some of the people impacted with VHL are doing amazing things:

• Keith Richards, a.k.a. “Just Sayin’” of Rosedale, New York is musician, a rapper, a poet and an amazing young man who uses his music as a platform for activism and spreading public awareness about VHL and other pressing issues in his community, the African-American community and the world.
• Brooke Elizabeth McLaurin, Miss North Carolina 2005 has VHL and established VHL and Brain Tumor Awareness as her platform and community service project during her reign. During her time as Miss North Carolina, Brooke helped raise funds for research and education, increased awareness of VHL and helped touch the lives of many.
• Jeannie McCoy of South Carolina is a mother of three, an active member of her community and an asset to the VHL Family Alliance serving on the Board of Directors, as a spokesperson and appearing as a speaker to help educate people about VHL throughout the East Coast.

Quite obviously, with millions of people affected around the world, VHL is in the genes of many more amazing people.  The above three people have taken time and energy to become visible examples of what living with VHL means and how to lead a life that makes a positive difference in the community and beyond.

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VHL Family Alliance
2001 Beacon Street, Suite 208
Boston, MA 02135-7787
T; 617-277-5667    F: 858-712-8712
On the web: www.vhl.org