Little but mighty- That is the way James Linn of Valrico describes his 19-year-old daughter, Allie Linn. Allie has a form of primordial dwarfism which is characterized by a much smaller body size in all stages of life starting at birth. The Potentials Foundation provides support for families and funding for research.
In an effort to bring awareness and raise funds for the Potentials Foundation, the Linn family has organized a fundraiser for the Potentials Foundation. On Tuesday, May 1, visit the Chipotle located at 829 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon between 5 and 9 p.m. Simply tell the cashier that you are there to support the cause, and Chipotle will donate 50% of the proceeds collected to the Potentials Foundation.
James explained, “The foundation provides a good framework of support. There are less than 100 known primordial dwarfs in the world. We luckily know quite a few that are in the United States.” James added, “A lot of our children have had many medial problems through the years. We can help to offer support for some of the known medical issues. This includes finding the right doctors and finding ways to better adapt so that the children can have a more normal life.”
Allie is 19 years old. She is 42 inches and weighs 40 pounds. However, she leads a very normal life.
She graduated from Durant High School, drives a modified VW bug and plans to attend college. James said of the fundraiser and need for awareness, “We just want to make awareness for little people and the primordial organization. These kids are little but mighty and can still have a normal functioning life. Most of them do very well in school and can do everyday activities. Sometimes they just need to modify the way they do things.”
The Potentials Foundation supports research that is being done to help promote a longer life and wellness. Money that is raised at fundraisers like this will help in diagnosis and proactive medical care.
James and Allie Linn will be at Chipotle on the night of the fundraiser. Just make certain that you tell the staff at Chipotle that you are there to support Allie and the Potentials Foundation.
For more information on primordial dwarfism and others ways you can help, please visit www.potentialsfoundation.org.
