About Angelman Syndrome
In 1965, Dr. Harry Angelman first described three children with characteristics now known as Angelman Syndrome (AS). Through intensive genetic research in the 1980's, a defect in a small region of the maternal 15th chromosome was discovered as the cause of AS. In 1997 the specific gene, which characterizes AS, was pinpointed.
At present there is no cure. "Angels" are cognitively disabled and the development of speech is not likely. Typically, language consists of 4 to 5 indiscriminate words. Although rare, some have up to 20 words. While Angels cannot speak, they do have much to say. Angels suffer from significant movement or balance problems and 80% suffer from difficult to treat seizures. A short attention span and a happy demeanor make Angels behaviorally unique. With a normal life expectancy, Angels require 24 hour, life long care.*
*Text taken from Band of Angels information page. A direct link can be found on our "Events" page.
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