University of Minnesota Confirms LGMD 2T Research Funding
April 15, 2026
The University of Minnesota Foundation has confirmed receipt of a $25,000 gift from the Cure LGMD 2T Foundation, directed specifically to the research of Dr. Peter B. Kang at the Greg Martzolf Muscular Dystrophy Center. The gift establishes the LGMD 2T/GMPPB Fund and supports work to understand and treat GMPPB-related muscular dystrophy.
In a letter to the Garner family, Kameron Nelson, CFRE, Development Officer for Neurosciences at the University of Minnesota Foundation, wrote:
“On behalf of the University of Minnesota Foundation and the Medical School, I would like to express our deepest gratitude for your generous gift of $25,000. Your support specifically directed toward the research of Dr. Peter Kang (LGMD 2T/GMPPB Fund) marks a pivotal moment in our shared mission to understand and treat Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2T.”
“While Dr. Kang and his colleagues navigate the molecular complexities of GMPPB-related muscular dystrophy, it is the resilience of families like yours that transforms data into hope. We are honored to stand with you. By combining the Garner family’s mission to spread awareness with the University’s research infrastructure, we are making significant strides toward the ultimate goal: a cure.”
The gift was made possible by generous donors and the fundraising leadership of new Cure LGMD 2T board member Joan Teslow. Joan, who lives with LGMD 2T, joined the executive board in 2026 to help lead the foundation’s fundraising efforts.
Every dollar raised by Cure LGMD 2T directly accelerates research, awareness, and support for families affected by Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2T/R19 and GMPPB-related Congenital Muscular Dystrophy.
Read the letter as text
University of Minnesota Foundation
McNamara Alumni Center
200 Oak Street SE, Suite 500
Minneapolis, MN 55455-2010
Tel: 612-624-3333 / 800-775-2187
Fax: 612-625-4305
give.umn.edu
April 15, 2026
Cure LGMD 2T Foundation
Attn: James Garner
120 Lazy Lake Dr.
Fall River, WI 53932
RE: Partnering for a Cure: Gratitude for Your $25,000 Investment in LGMD 2T Research
Dear Garner Family and the Cure LGMD 2T Foundation Team,
On behalf of the University of Minnesota Foundation and the Medical School, I would like to express our deepest gratitude for your generous gift of $25,000. Your support specifically directed toward the research of Dr. Peter Kang (LGMD 2T/GMPPB Fund) marks a pivotal moment in our shared mission to understand and treat Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2T.
At the University of Minnesota, we believe that the most profound scientific breakthroughs are fueled by the lived experiences of those they serve. Your foundation’s story, born from Luke’s diagnosis and the Garner family’s unwavering commitment, brings a vital sense of urgency and humanity to our laboratories.
“Following Luke’s diagnosis, our family made it our priority to spread the message of hope to others affected by this condition… Together, we are stronger in our fight against this disease.”
These words resonate deeply with our clinical and research teams. While Dr. Kang and his colleagues navigate the molecular complexities of GMPPB-related muscular dystrophy, it is the resilience of families like yours that transforms data into hope. We are honored to stand with you. By combining the Garner family’s mission to spread awareness with the University’s research infrastructure, we are making significant strides toward the ultimate goal: a cure.
Thank you for your trust, your vision, and your partnership. We look forward to keeping you updated on the progress made possible by your generosity.
With heartfelt thanks and Maroon and Gold pride,
Kameron Nelson, CFRE
Development Officer, Neurosciences
University of Minnesota Foundation
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