December 1, 2016
LUBBOCK, Texas – First United Bank is honored to announce the beginning of a fundraising campaign to benefit Alström Angels. First United Bank has donated 630 angel-wing Christmas tree ornaments—one to honor each child currently living with Alström Syndrome. The ornaments will be sold to benefit Alström Angels, throughout the Christmas season, at each of our First United Bank Banking Centers in Lubbock, as well as through the Alström Angels organization. Alström Syndrome is a rare disease that affects every organ in the body. Progressive vision loss, hearing loss, kidney failure and neurological issues are just a few of the battles children with Alström Syndrome will face. In March of 2012, Bryce Johnston, the then three-year old daughter of Lynn and Cassie Johnston of Lubbock, was diagnosed with Alström Syndrome. After discovering the severe lack of funding and general knowledge of this rare disease, the Johnston’s formed Alström Angels with a three-fold intent:- To raise funds for Alström Syndrome genetic and medical research
- To increase awareness of the rare disease among the general public and medical communities
- To improve family support for those affected by the Syndrome.