Jessica Ondell takes over as Chapter President
Indiana (November 16, 2021) – The Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) Indiana Chapter is happy to announce that Jessica Ondell will take over as HDSA’s Indiana Chapter President. Jessica will lead HDSA’s Indiana Chapter Board which consists of Amber Shady (Vice President), Jim Hamlet (Treasurer), and Emily Yohler (Secretary).
At a young age, Jessica witnessed her mother develop HD symptoms before she was later placed in a nursing home. Jessica’s sister is currently battling Huntington’s disease. Jessica is determined to make a difference in the Indiana Community and to expand its current outreach.
“I am excited to take over as the president of the Indiana HDSA Chapter and be a leader in the fight against HD,” said Jessica Ondell. “My goal as president is to connect the HD community in Indiana and raise awareness for HD.”
To learn more about Jessica’s family HD journey, click here
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Huntington’s disease (HD) is a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person’s physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure. Every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the faulty gene. Today, there are approximately 41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease. The symptoms of HD are described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s – simultaneously.
The Huntington’s Disease Society of America is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by HD. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world’s leader in providing help for today and hope for tomorrow for people with HD and their families. HDSA was founded in 1967 by Marjorie Guthrie, the wife of legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie. Woody died from HD complications when he was only 55 years old, but the Guthrie family legacy lives on at HDSA to this day.
To learn more about Huntington’s disease and the work of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, visit www.hdsa.org or call (800)345-HDSA.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Matthew Santamaria
Communications Manager
(212) 242-1968 ext. 204
msantamaria@hdsa.org