Tampa family needs your help to fight GAN disease

Everyday is a struggle for Mike and Joey Pizzurro.  In 1990, they were both diagnosed with Giant Axonal Neuropathy or GAN.

Now in their 20's, the brothers are confined to beds and wheelchairs. They are hooked up to breathing machines while confined to beds and wheelchairs.

Their mother, Mary, said they're lucky to be alive.

"This disease has taken away everything except our spirits," she said. "We still have that because there still is a chance."

Today, the brothers along with many other patients with the same illness are in 3rd place to receive a $250,000 Pepsi Refresh Project grant that could save their lives.

A team from Hannah's Hope, who applied for the grant, has located the gene responsible for the disease and has developed a drug. They need the money to fund a clinical trial.

"I would trade my life for my kids," said Mary Pizzurro. "Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way."

If Hannah's Hope places 1st or 2nd they will get the money.

How you can help

Just log onto www.hannahshopefund.org and click on the "vote" tab to sign up.  You can also vote at  http://www.refresheverything.com/

You can also "text" 101885 to the number 73774.