The History of AJS Foundation for Metabolic Diseases
Melissa and Richard have been looking for a cure for MSUD since Avery was diagnosed at 9 days old. Though they were able to keep the disease at bay through a strict diet and a special formula, something as simple as a common cold could place Avery in the hospital for weeks at a time. It had become the Stamps family mission not only to save their sons life, but to help all children who were afflicted with this devastating disorder.
After a harrowing initial surgery, and two subsequent operations, Avery was moved to the transplant floor - and a new beginning for a healthy life. Today, after some bumps in the road, Avery is cured, and living the life of a normal, healthy, 6 year-old boy. Though he was always a cheerful and positive little boy, he is even more energetic and willing to embrace life.
In 2002, Melissa and Richard founded the Avery Jordan Stamps foundation. To date, the foundation has raised over a half a million dollars for children with MSUD. The funds have been utilized to purchase equipment, provide medical assistance, and in 2005 and 2006 the ultimate gift was given to two little boys. Mihir and Artur, two children suffering from MSUD were given the financial and social support needed to successfully recover from a life-saving liver transplant.
In 2007, the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia ("CHOP"), the most prestigious pediatric hospital and research facility in the nation recently recognized the AJS Foundation for its advocacy and its efforts in the fight against Metabolic Diseases, such as Maple Syrup Urine Disease.
View our short video on how the AJS Foundation got started and the contributions it has made.
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Mission Statement
AJS's mission to increase worldwide education, promote necessary medical research and initiate community and family support. In all of its activities, events, and programs, the AJS Foundation places special emphasis on understanding metabolic diseases, its history and the debilitating limitations it causes its sufferers. With this emphasis, AJS hopes to provide hope to families seeking assistance, both financially and emotionally.