Edison, NJ – Former NFL star Art Still is tackling a new opponent: amyloidosis. This rare disease, affecting 1 in 25 African Americans, is a cause close to Still’s heart as he and family members are currently battling it. Still is using his platform to educate current and retired athletes across all sports about the disease, with the goal of promoting early detection and preventive measures.
Amyloidosis occurs when abnormal proteins accumulate in the body’s organs and tissues, potentially leading to organ failure. The disease is hereditary, and Still emphasizes that many individuals may unknowingly carry the gene.
“Getting awareness out there is one of the things we are trying to do now,” states Still. “The results of Amyloidosis can diminish your life expectancy. When Amyloidosis happens, we want doctors to treat the core problem, not the symptoms.”
Still is partnering with organizations such as the Amyloidosis Army, the Mid-State Black Nurses Association of NJ, and the New Brunswick NAACP to host an Amyloidosis Awareness Initiative presentation. The event will take place on February 1, 2025, 1:00pm at Herbert Hoover Middle School in Edison, New Jersey.
The presentation will feature medical experts, including Dr. Renee Bullock-Palmer, Director of Non-Invasive Cardiac Imaging at Deborah Heart and Lung Center, and Angela A. Moss, RN, APN-C from the Mid-State Black Nurses Association of NJ. They will discuss the disease, its impact, and available treatments.
Still’s advocacy efforts aim to shed light on this often-overlooked disease and encourage preventive measures within the African American community and beyond.
Key takeaways:
- Amyloidosis is a hereditary disease affecting 1 in 25 African Americans.
- The disease causes abnormal protein buildup in organs, potentially leading to organ failure.
- Art Still, former NFL player, is championing awareness efforts.
- An Amyloidosis Awareness Initiative presentation will be held on February 1, 2025, in Edison, New Jersey.
Call to action:
- Attend the Amyloidosis Awareness Initiative presentation on February 1, 2025.
- Learn more about amyloidosis and its impact on the African American community.
- Spread awareness about the disease and the importance of early detection.
Let’s join Art Still in tackling amyloidosis!
