Welcome to Your Chromosome 18 Family!

A place of hope, support, and understanding. For over three decades, we’ve been uniting families affected by Chromosome 18 conditions. With a network of over 6,000 families worldwide, we are committed to offering support and understanding. Chromosome 18 conditions can be life-changing, but here, you’ll find a community that truly understands your experiences. Together, we offer a shared journey of learning, emotional support, and hope for the future. Enjoy this welcome video from our Founder, Dr. Jannine Cody!

Our Mission: Support, Education, and Research

At the core of Chromosome 18’s mission are three main pillars: nurturing a compassionate community, enhancing education, and driving innovative research. We are focused on making Chromosome 18 abnormalities the first treatable chromosome condition. Every day, we work toward a future where people with these conditions can achieve their full potential. We envision a world where treatments are readily available and effective, and where families affected by these conditions can thrive.

As part of this mission, we provide access to the latest research advancements and medical breakthroughs related to Chromosome 18 conditions. Our goal is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact, ensuring that families are empowered with the tools and knowledge needed to make informed decisions.

A Global Community for Families

This community is more than just a support system; it’s a place where families can connect, share, and grow together. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been part of the Chromosome 18 family for years, we welcome you. Every family’s journey is unique, but you’re not alone in navigating it. Through our global network, you can find people who understand your challenges and celebrate your victories.

We provide opportunities for families to come together through social media groups, virtual events, and regional meet-ups. These spaces are designed to foster connection, share knowledge, and offer encouragement. One of the highlights of our year is the Annual Chromosome 18 Family Conference, where families gather to learn, share, and support one another. Whether online or in-person, we create spaces where families feel welcome, supported, and part of a larger community.

Join us in making a difference.
Membership is free!

RESOURCES

Chromosome 18 is constantly striving to improve access to free resources for all of our members

BLOGS

Checkout our latest Blogs

EVENTS

Check out all our in person & virtual events

OUR FAMILIES

Videos from our members sharing their experiences with Tetrasomy 18p, 18q-, 18p-, Trisomy 18, and Ring 18.

Resources for Every Step of the Journey

This website serves as a resource hub, offering tools and information to support your Chromosome 18 journey. Here, you’ll find guides on the specific conditions, details about symptoms, and available treatments. Our medical resources provide information from trusted experts, helping you navigate complex medical decisions with confidence.

Our resources also include educational materials (PDF’s, Videos) tailored to different stages of life—whether you’re a parent of a young child with a Chromosome 18 condition, an adult living with the condition, or a healthcare professional looking to learn more. We believe that education is key to improving quality of life for those affected, and we’re dedicated to providing clear, accessible information.

Research That Drives Change

Our commitment to research is unwavering. We partner with leading scientists and medical professionals to fund and promote cutting-edge research into Chromosome 18 conditions. The ultimate goal? To make Chromosome 18 the first treatable chromosome condition. We fund projects that look for treatments, therapies, and interventions that improve the lives of those with these conditions. Our research efforts have already led to significant breakthroughs, but there’s more work to be done.

By supporting research, you are not only helping your family but also contributing to the broader scientific understanding of these conditions. Every donation, every partnership, and every bit of involvement brings us closer to our goal.

Get Involved with Chromosome 18

We believe that together, we are stronger. As a part of the Chromosome 18 family, your participation in our community helps to drive positive change. Whether you’re attending our Annual Family Conference, sharing your story on social media, or taking part in a fundraising event, your involvement makes a difference. There are many ways to get involved, and every contribution counts.

Join our global network of families, researchers, and advocates working to make Chromosome 18 conditions the first treatable chromosome disorder. You can start by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social media, or volunteering for one of our many programs. We also offer opportunities for families to share their stories and experiences with others. These personal narratives inspire hope and create a sense of unity within our community.

Why Choose Chromosome 18?

We understand that navigating the complexities of a Chromosome 18 condition can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve spent over 30 years building a network that’s designed to meet your needs. By choosing Chromosome 18, you’re choosing an organization that puts families first, prioritizing their needs in every step we take. Our community is here to support, educate, and empower you as you navigate your journey.

This website is your resource, guiding you with unique tools and information to support your Chromosome 18 journey. Stay informed with the latest research advancements and be inspired by the stories of families just like yours. You’ll find strength, hope, and community here—because no one should have to go through this journey alone.

Welcome to the Chromosome 18 Family

We are here for you. By joining our global network, you are contributing to a future where treatment and solutions for Chromosome 18 abnormalities become a reality. We welcome you with open arms to a community filled with hope, support, and the unwavering belief that we can achieve remarkable things together.

Your donation dollars at work

$18

buys cold storage for one week for our irreplaceable biobank, the heart of the research study

$50

buys enrollment in the lifesaving chromosome 18 research study for a US family 

$100

allows one international family to enroll in the lifesaving chromosome 18 research study

$500

funds establishing the cell lines necessary to study one child’s rare chromosome 18 abnormality