“Certain Women Shine”: Solidarity, Music, and Community to Support Research on CMT2A

Friday, July 18 at 8:30 PM – Subbiano in Celebration

Some stories teach us that even the smallest gesture, if repeated with consistency, can become a force capable of transforming the world. This is the case of Roberto Russo, father of Gaia, who has turned his experience into a source of hope for those living with a rare disease.

Gaia is affected by Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2A (CMT2A), a rare and progressive genetic neuropathy that affects the peripheral nervous system. When she received her diagnosis, Roberto chose not to remain passive. He decided to take action to raise awareness and funds for research, with the goal of helping build a safer future for Gaia and many other patients. Thanks to his tireless commitment and the support of an increasingly engaged community, since 2018 he has raised over €100,000 for the Mitofusin 2 project at our Center (to read more about his story, you can check out this article: “Dad Roberto tells Gaia’s story”).

Now, he has planned a new and special initiative, taking place on July 18 in the charming square beneath the walls of Subbiano: “Certain Women Shine.” An evening designed to highlight the light of Gaia and all women who, like her, live every day with a neuromuscular disease. It is an opportunity to come together, reflect, and support a cause that affects many families.

The event will begin at 8:30 PM, accompanied by music from Band 23, who will perform covers of major Italian artists such as Ligabue, Vasco Rossi, and Negrita. Surrounding the music will be a warm and participatory atmosphere, perfect for toasting amid conversation and smiles.

The evening will be hosted by Roberto himself, who once again has chosen to lead from the front, supported by a network of people who, like him, deeply believe in the value of scientific research. During the event, those wishing to make a concrete contribution can do so by purchasing gadgets from the Omino del Selfie – t-shirts, caps, and magnets – which have become recognizable symbols of his charitable initiatives.

All proceeds will be donated in full to the “Centro Dino Ferrari” at the University of Milan – Policlinico Hospital, to support the Mitofusin 2 research project led by Prof. Stefania Corti and her team of researchers, which represents one of the main hopes for those living with CMT2A. This acronym encompasses a complex reality: Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2A, a genetic neurodegenerative disease affecting peripheral nerves, gradually compromising muscle strength, coordination, mobility, and, in the most severe cases, even breathing. It is a rare and progressive condition, still without a cure, for which only scientific research can offer new perspectives.

It is precisely on this frontier that our Center has been working for years, developing innovative studies and approaches that, thanks to support from initiatives like this, can continue to advance and give voice to the hope of many.

A special thanks goes to the Municipality of Subbiano, the Pro Loco, and all the sponsors who made this evening possible. Our sincere thanks also go to everyone who will choose to attend: their presence will transform the event into a true moment of community and participation.

For those who cannot attend, there is still the opportunity to make a difference through a donation on our website. Even a small gesture can become a great step forward for Gaia and all those who face the invisible challenges of neuromuscular diseases every day.