For the last three weeks, the world has learned of the plight of the Gray Family. Daughters Charlotte (4.5 years old) and Gwenyth (almost 2) were both recently diagnosed with a rare neurodegenerative disorder called Late Infantile NCL Batten disease CLN6, which currently is fatal. But parents Gordon and Kristen Gray were not going to settle for such a prognosis. They have, in fact, waged war on this horrific illness and are determined to save their girls, through grassroots fundraising for research and a sweeping social media movement to create awareness-and dollars-to battle Batten disease. And because of Gordon’s Hollywood connections (he is one of the top Disney movie producers) their friends, some of Hollywood’s most influential such as Reese Witherspoon, Jon Hamm, Jessica Alba and Mark Wahlberg, have joined the fight.
And recently, we held the first fundraiser for the Gray girls in Brentwood, a Tea for Two tea party, which was hosted by Ali Larter, Sasha Alexander and Angie Harmon. The event was attended by Hollywood moms such as Jenna Dewan-Tatum, Selma Blair and Kyle Richards and others who were visibly affected when hearing the stories of Charlotte and Gwenyth. But were hopeful to find a cure and put an end to Batten disease, once and for all.
Here is the story of Charlotte and Gwenyth, as told by their parents, Kristen and Gordon Gray.
Please consider donating to www.CureBatten.org and spread the word via social media by using #CureBatten. We can’t do this without you.
