Township committee members present Anthony Mirigliani (second from right) with a proclamation during the Digging Deep for Anthony fundraiser to raise money for Pitt Hopkins syndrome research. Mirigliani was diagnosed with the genetic condition at 5 years old.
The family of Anthony Mirigliani hosted the Digging Deep for Anthony fundraiser on Sept. 27 at the Edelman Fossil Park and Museum to raise awareness and money for Pitt Hopkins syndrome research.
The rare genetic condition is linked to a gene on chromosome 18, known as TCF4. Signs of Pitt Hopkins include developmental delays, breathing difficulties, recurrent seizures or epilepsy, gastrointestinal problems, limited speech and distinctive facial features. There is currently no treatment or cure.
Anthony was diagnosed with the syndrome at 5 years old. Now 21, he graduated from Clearview Regional High School in 2022 and has played sports at TOPSports in Mullica Hill, despite being non-verbal and requiring constant attention and care.
“He suffers multiple issues, including breathing complications, constipation and fine/gross motor delays,” said Mirigliani’s mother, Claudette. “Even though he’s non-verbal, he makes his presence known. He is very happy and tries with all his might to belong.”
It was the drive to help her son that led Mirigliani to join the board of the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation. Over the last 13 years, her family has hosted fundraising events to find a cure for the disease.
“Our goal is to find a treatment as quickly as possible that will help give our children higher functioning, fuller lives,” Claudette explained. “This research is funded by generous donations from the community.”
The Edelman Fossil Park and Museum fundraiser included access to the facility’s exhibits, raffles and photo oportunities. Mirigliani was also presented with a township proclamation by Mayor Robert Zimmerman and committee members Jay Snyder and Jason Snyder.
“We have always made it a priority to support Anthony and the Mirigliani family in their quest to raise awareness and funding for Pitt Hopkins syndrome,” Zimmerman noted. “I have personally known Claudette and (her husband) Frank for well over 20 years, and they are very dear friends of mine.
“Anthony has been a local hero in Mantua for many years, inspiring others and giving hope, and literally putting Pitt Hopkins on the map in our community,” he added. “This was the 13th year in a row that I’ve presented this proclamation to Anthony and his family on behalf of the township committee, and it’s one of my absolute favorites.”
To make a donation to Pitt Hopkins research, visit Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation’s website.
