May is Huntington disease awareness month, and the Apex Lions Club was honored to welcome Betsey McFarland, Executive Director of hdreach, as our guest speaker.
Founded right here in North Carolina in 2009, hdreach is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing healthcare access, education, and social assistance for individuals and families affected by Huntington’s disease, often referred to as HD. Their mission is centered on keeping people connected and supported across North Carolina.
During her presentation, Betsey shared powerful and emotional information about Huntington’s disease, a genetic neurodegenerative disease that affects cognition, movement, and behavior. Many people are unfamiliar with HD, but the impact on families can be devastating.
Some of the facts Betsey shared included:
- Huntington’s disease is often described as ALS + MS + Alzheimer’s combined
- The average age of onset is between 35 and 45 years old
- Symptoms can last 15 to 20 years
- There is currently no cure for HD
- Juvenile Huntington’s disease begins before age 20
- Every child of a parent with HD has a 50% chance of inheriting the faulty gene that causes the disease
These realities highlight why awareness, education, and support are so important for families facing HD.
Despite having a small staff of only four paid employees, hdreach provides an incredible level of support throughout the state. Their dedicated team includes:
- Betsey McFarland, Executive Director
- Kelly, Operations Manager
- Erika, Community Outreach Specialist
- Brandi, Care Navigator
Together, they provide a wide range of services including:
- Training for physicians, nurses, and EMS professionals on caring for HD patients
- Meetups for patients and caregivers
- Online support groups
- Community connection programs
- Assistance with anonymous genetic testing and counseling
- A book club and gaming club called Game Over
The Apex Lions Club appreciates the opportunity to learn more about the challenges families face with Huntington’s disease and the meaningful work being done by hdreach to provide hope, guidance, and connection. As Lions, we believe in serving our community by supporting organizations and individuals who make a difference in the lives of others. Programs like hdreach remind us how important compassion, education, and community support truly are.
To learn more about Huntington’s disease and the important work being done across North Carolina, please visit hdreach.org. The Apex Lions Club is proud to support awareness efforts that help strengthen our community and improve lives.
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