Livie was less than two years old when her life was cut short by Smooth Muscle Dysfunction Syndrome (SMDS). SMDS is a rare disorder causing severe disease in childhood including thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections. SMDS was first identified in 2010, thanks to groundbreaking work in identifying genetic causes of thoracic aortic disease in all patients by Dr. Dianna Milewicz, Director of the John Ritter Research Program. The Love for Livie and John Ritter Foundation partnership has led to rapid research advancements in understanding the underlying mechanism of this condition, the first step in finding an effective treatment.

The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health is committed to funding research on treatments for SMDS and childhood onset aortic disease, which has the potential to benefit all people at risk for aortic dissection and aneurysm, including adults and those without genetic disease. Thoracic aortic dissection is a deadly disease that is frequently misdiagnosed.  There are no drugs that can prevent dissection, and it typically occurs without warning. There are between 6,000 to 10,000 cases of acute aortic dissection annually in the USA.  

We invite you to an Evening from the Heart NYC celebrating Livie and all who suffer from thoracic aortic disease while helping further our mission of raising awareness of this condition through research, education, and advocacy. The evening will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, auction, and a research update from our experts.