By Trevier Gonzalez

The Orange Leader

According to the National Library of Medicine, Charcot -Marie-Tooth disease, better known as CMT, is a combination of disorders that severely impacts the nervous system. Although it started with her mother in the ‘80s, when two of her own children were diagnosed with the condition, Angela Beaumont, a long-term Vidor resident, became a member of the Charcot -Marie-Tooth Association. Despite the fact CMT affects approximately one in every 2,500 individuals worldwide, Angela soon discovered the CMTA was not represented within the southeast Texas area, or even Houston at the time. As a means to spread awareness of CMT and work towards a cure, she founded her own branch in Vidor in 2015. Since the organization’s establishment, their mission has been simple: “To improve the quality of life for people with CMT and ultimately to find a cure.” In doing so, Orange County’s Commissioner Court proclaimed this week that September be regarded as Charcot -Marie-Tooth Awareness Month. Last year, as a means to increase awareness for CMT, Angela started the first “Zombie” Walk for CMT.” This time, judging from the feedback she’s received by setting up the event on Facebook, Angela said there might be three times as many participants than last year. The walk is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 10, which will be located at 2400 Highway 12 in Vidor. Angela said her branch of the CMT started a little earlier than last year, and they’re ready to get the ball rolling. “I just hope more people show up than last year,” Angela said. “It’s all about awareness.”

For more information, contact Angela at angiekjacobs@gmail.com.