Award offered to young people with Alport Syndrome

The Alport Syndrome Foundation is accecpting applications from Alport Syndrome patients for the Paul Silver Tribute Award. The award is aimed at enriching the lives of young Alport patients ages 16 to 22 to support education, complete a project, or pursue an activity that will enhance the applicant’s life. Awards will be granted up to a maximum of $1,000. Applications must be submitted before the Nov. 4, 2016.

The Paul Silver Tribute Award was created in memory of Paul Silver, an Alport Syndrome patient. Paul was a film and music editor in Hollywood who passed away in 2004 at the age of 38. In 1985, Paul was the recipient of a similar award while studying filmmaking in college. Paul needed a camera to document his trip to Tuscany, Italy, where he was planning to attend a summer study program. He applied for, and won, an award that enabled him to make a documentary film about his experiences in Italy and the benefits of this program for the university.

“We are in our fifth year of accepting applications for this award,” said Alport Syndrome Foundation Board President Sharon Lagas. “Eleven young people with Alport Syndrome have already received this award and their stories are inspirational, full of courage and provide positive role models for other young people affected by this disease.” Essays from previous award winners are available on the website.

The award can be used for a variety of activities, including tuition, summer camp, music lessons, an educational trip or a specific project. Applicants will be evaluated on the purpose and potential impact of the award, quality of their essay, recommendations, and completeness of their submittal. The application guidelines and requirements are available on the foundation’s website.

Alport Syndrome is a hereditary kidney disease that causes a decline in kidney function, hearing loss, and vision problems.