Rays of Gratitude is supporting Cure for Cade, a heartfelt initiative aimed at saving the life of young Cade, who has been diagnosed with the ultra-rare genetic disease Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (SPG50). Cade is the grandson of our partner, the Head of the Center for Marine and Environmental Studies at The University of the Virgin Islands, Paul Jobsis. Since birth, Cade has been a beacon of joy, bringing smiles to everyone he meets despite his developmental delays. On August 10th, 2023, his family received the devastating diagnosis, revealing that without treatment, Cade's condition would progressively rob him of his abilities to move, speak, and think.

Rays of Gratitude, guided by our mission pillar for children's rights and education, firmly believes that all children should have the right to healthcare. Inspired by the story of another father who developed a gene therapy for his son with the same condition, Cade’s family is racing against time to secure funding for the next round of clinical trials, which offer Cade his best hope for a brighter future. Your support can help ensure Cade gets the chance he deserves to continue spreading happiness with his radiant smile.