Have a Heart for Marfans

For those of you who don't know, I have a genetic condition called Marfan Syndrome. I'm becoming more involved with the NMF by volunteering for the local chapter and received the following press release about a movie, Mo, that will hopefully be coming out. It's about a boy who has Marfans and I thought it was interesting to share! Here's the press release I received.



For the Love of a Brother, a Tribute by a NY Filmmaker

''Mo'', a Touching True Story (Starring Erik Per Sullivan of ''Malcolm in the Middle''), Premieres at the Malibu International Film Festival

This Movie Hopes to Do for Marfan Syndrome What ''Rainman'' Did for Autism

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Erik Per Sullivan of "Malcolm in the Middle" stars in a more mature role as the title character in "Mo", an inspirational, stylized independent movie from first-time director Brian Scott Lederman. "Mo" is an amusing, yet poignant true story about a boy living with Marfan syndrome, a serious connective tissue disorder. "Mo" is the centerpiece film at this year's Malibu International Film Festival, premiering on April 14th at 7:30 pm.

Brian Scott Lederman's directorial debut, set on Long Island, NY, tells a charming personal journey of adolescence, self-discovery, hardship and existence. "Mo" tries, successfully, to be normal and to live a carefree kid's life, as he is indeed surrounded by much love from his family members and friends. "We are so excited to be the centerpiece film of the Malibu International Film Festival and know this great industry platform will give 'Mo' a chance to be seen by a wider audience. Our hope is to do for Marfan syndrome what 'Rainman' did for autism."

Marfan syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the connective tissue. The primary purpose of connective tissue is to hold the body together and provide a framework for growth and development. People with Marfan syndrome have a number of outward physical features, but it is the effect on the aorta, the blood vessel that leads away from the heart that can become life-threatening. It is estimated that at least 1 in 5,000 people in the United States have the disorder; about half of them are not diagnosed.

"Mo's" soundtrack follows in the great indie tradition of such films as "Garden State," where the music and the movie come alive on screen. Featuring sounds by "The Dave Matthews Band," "Lost Role Models," “Anythingbox" and "Acid House Kings," this eclectic mix of music talent is sure to become a cult favorite with moviegoers.

Malibu Film Festival Producer David Katz said, "'Mo' is consistent with the mission of the festival and its unique and compelling story is told in a way that everyone can relate to."
The husband and wife team of Brian Scott Lederman and Monica Lederman produced "Mo" together and call the film a "genuine labor of love."

See the trailer and other information for "Mo" at http://www.mofilm.net/.
For more information on Marfan syndrome go to http://www.marfan.org/.
For more information on the Malibu International Film Festival go to http://www.malibufilmfestival.com/.