American journalist Allie LaForce and Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Smith urged other MLB players and athletes to join the annual HelpCureHD (Huntington's Disease) Gala in August. The sports reporter has been at the forefront of the fight for the longest time. She shared her gratitude for their support last year, saying,
"Houston SHOWED UP!!!! We were in awe of the support by the city & the @astrosbaseball players & coaches that came and supported Joe and my mission to achieve an HD-free world."
Allie also added that the yearly support had improved the lives of many families dealing with HD. Last year, she wore a blue silk jumpsuit paired with a white blazer and styled her curly platinum blonde hair in a high ponytail. Allie was smiling as she and Joe hit the Red Carpet, welcoming guests and thanking them for their presence.
Fighting Huntington's Disease is personal for the Smiths because Joe's family genetics carries the gene. They tried conceiving with IVF recently and hoped for a heartbeat at their last Doctor's appointment. The couple mentioned that it'd be a big relief and joy when they hear a heartbeat and make it to the end of their fertility journey. Using IVF prevents the genes from passing on to other family members, thus contributing to the end of an emotionally draining cycle.
Since they're in a privileged position under their career earnings, the couple give Grants to those less fortunate through their foundation, HelpCureHD. According to MLB News, LaForce and Smith have contributed to the birth of 16 babies, all listed on their website. LaForce and her husband document their journey on their blog - Allie and Joe's IVF Journey.
Last week, they announced the success of their latest test, saying,
"Hi Baby... Trying to write almost every day! It's been a rollercoaster, but so far it's been worth every second❤️🙏🏼 Is there really a baby in there!?🥰😍"
"May is Huntington Disease Awareness Month! From facts, personal stories, resources, and more, this month, we hope to give you a better understanding of HD and how we are working to achieve an HD-free world!"
Smith reposted a message from their foundation's Instagram account to raise awareness for the disease. They've dedicated their lives to championing the cause and aren't stopping anything soon.
