HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — Despite chilly temperatures, the Marfan Foundation’s Walk For Victory was still on in Hollywood Sunday.

“It’s definitely cold, but our hearts are warm, because this is poised to be the largest event in terms of attendance in our history across the country,” Marfan Foundation spokesperson April Dawn Shinske said.

The walk, benefiting those living with Marfan syndrome, a genetic connective tissue disorder that can be life-threatening if left untreated, will be held Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. at T.Y. Park at 3300 N. Park Road.

“Marfan Syndrome, if it’s caught early, is actually very treatable nowadays, and folks can expect a healthy, long life. But the issue is getting diagnosis, knowing the signs,” Shinske said. “People with Marfan are often very tall, have long fingers, they may have eye issues, bone health issues.”

Local 10 has a team walking at the event. If you’d like to get involved or donate to the cause, visit our Team Top Ten page.

“One of the things with this condition is many people feel isolated and alone. And this walk is really not about walking. It’s almost like a family picnic to build community,” Shinske said. “So, coming here for folks and seeing they are not alone. They are surrounded by support, love, resources, experts, physicians and their community at large, means the world to them.”

Despite chilly temps, Marfan Foundation walk organizers expect big crowds Sunday

‘It’s definitely cold, but our hearts are warm’

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Isabella Martin