Phenylketonuria
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic metabolic disorder. Individuals with PKU cannot process the amino acid phenylalanine, which is present in most foods. Without treatment, phenylalanine builds up in the bloodstream and causes severe neurological complications, including mental retardation. The standard treatment consists of a strict diet very low in phenylalanine and daily consumption of special formula containing life sustaining nutrition. If the diet is consistently and strictly maintained, individuals with PKU will develop normally. Continued research is needed to ease the difficulty of the diet and improve the quality of life for all individuals living with PKU!
For additional, comprehensive information on PKU, please visit: http://www.newbornscreening.info/Parents/aminoaciddisorders/PKU.html
Our Mission
Georgia PKU Connect, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of Georgia's Phenylketonuria (PKU) community. Our mission is to support individuals and families through camaraderie, education, advocacy and research.
Our Guiding Principles
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Strengthen and support the Georgia PKU community by reaching out to as many individuals, families and organizations as possible
- Serve individuals with PKU regardless of age or level of treatment
- Collaborate with medical professionals and nonprofit organizations sharing our mission
- Raise funds for educational initiatives, research programs, and community building activities
- Advocate for affecting persons and families for coverage of required treatments
- Increase public awareness of PKU and other inherited metabolic disorders
- Participate in the development of educational materials and assist in their distribution
- Support the newborn screening recommendation of the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)
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Board of Directors
Kristen Vanags
President and Founding Member
Parent of Joseph Vanags (Classical PKU)
Atlanta, Georgia
kristen@georgiapku.org
Julie Cheek
Secretary and Founding Member
Parent of Jacob Cheek (Classical PKU)
Augusta, Georgia
julie@georgiapku.org
Scott Vanags
Treasurer
Parent of Joseph Vanags (Classical PKU)
Atlanta, Georgia
scott@georgiapku.org
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Download a copy of Georgia PKU Connect By-Laws
Download a copy of Georgia PKU Connect’s Organizational Summary
For questions or more info, click here to send us an email.
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