New video PSA may help raise donation for brain research

In its continuing fight to end brain disorders, the American Academy of Neurology Foundation is turning entries submitted to the 2010 Neuro Film Festival into its latest video public service announcement about the need for donations for more research into curing brain disorders.  

"With one in six of us affected by a brain disorder, research is desperately needed. We need your help in sharing this video PSA online to help us raise money for brain research at www.buyabrain.org," said Christine E. Phelps, Deputy Executive Director of the American Academy of Neurology Foundation.  

The video PSA, which can be shared via its posting on YouTube, was created using material from some of the 65 accepted entries into the 2010 Neuro Film Festival, the inaugural contest in an annual competition hosted by the American Academy of Neurology Foundation.

"Who better to help us show why more brain research is needed than the remarkable people who told their personal stories about brain disorders through the Neuro Film Festival?" said Phelps. "It's humbling to watch their courage as they battle disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, which currently have no cure. It's up to us to see to it that we can someday provide these people with a better quality of life."  

To join the American Academy of Neurology Foundation in the fight to end brain disorders, please visit www.buyabrain.org, where you can purchase a virtual brain in honor of someone you know with a brain disorder, and 100% of your donation will support research.

People may also submit a short video to the 2011 Neuro Film Festival at www.neurofilmfestival.com.    

Winners could receive up to $1,000 and a trip to Hawaii to see their film shown on April 10, 2011, in conjunction with the American Academy of Neurology's Annual Meeting, which is the world's largest meeting of neurologists.  The deadline for video submissions to the 2011 Neuro Film Festival is February 15, 2011.

The American Academy of Neurology Foundation raises money to support vital research into the prevention, treatment and cure of brain disorders. The AAN Foundation is committed to improving patient care, quality of life and public understanding of the brain and other neurologic disorders.

The American Academy of Neurology, an association of more than 22,000 neurologists and neuroscience professionals, is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as multiple sclerosis, restless legs syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, narcolepsy, and stroke.