MarfanLife.net | News blog

Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | What does your body shape say about you?: “As well as indicating your risk of illness, your body shape can sometimes alert you to a condition you already have. People with Marfan’s Syndrome, for example, are often not diagnosed until their illness, which causes a problem of the connective tissues, affects the heart and becomes life-threatening. But they may for many years have exhibited the tell-tale features of the condition, which affects one in 5,000 people in the UK: long limbs, a slim build, very long fingers and toes. “

Donnie Smith, 25, was gold medalist in Special Olympics: “Donnie Smith was a bona fide sportsman. He loved basketball and bowling; skiing and soccer; football and track. He excelled in karate and softball, says his mother, Sue Smith.
Mr. Smith, 25, died Tuesday at St. Elizabeth Medial Center in Edgewood of Marfan syndrome.”

Couple helps spread word abut Marfan syndrome: “Kari and Marty Dostalik of Urbandale did not know what Marfan syndrome was three years ago. Today, the couple volunteers by educating others about the disorder and offering support to other families dealing with the condition.”