A local family is continuing to raise awareness about a heartbreaking childhood illness.
Jennifer Ducharme’s two sons suffer from PANDAS, or Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections.
The family is now going to be featured in a new documentary, set to be released in the fall.
“They plan on getting the film out to people through various public screenings, using internet streaming platforms, and screens at university campuses that have recognized medical programs. There will also be short 2-5 minute videos featuring my family that will circulate on social media as well”, says Ducharme.
Ducharme says while the disease is terrifying and isolating, it’s a comfort to know that it will help to raise more awareness.
“This disease is terrible. This awareness needs to happen and I’m incredibly proud to be part of this and so proud of my two boys because they agreed to be part of it as well to help other children. As a mom, that’s just an amazing feeling”, Ducharme says.
An online fundraiser has been launched to help finish the documentary.