Puzzles for Piper: A Community Coming Together for Rare Disease Research
Written by Brettne Frewin
A Fundraiser With Heart
When we launched Puzzles for Piper last year, I was so overwhelmend by the love and support of our community. As Piper’s mom, watching nearly 200 people gather this year to raise awareness and funds for DYNC1H1-related disorders was truly humbling. Together, we raised over $23,000 for the DYNC1H1 Association, money that will go directly toward rare disease research and the development of potential treatments for DYNC1H1-related disorders. Every team, donor, and supporter helped turn what started as an idea into an unforgettable rare disease fundraiser event filled with joy, energy, and hope.
The Puzzle Competition Fundraiser
The day was centered around our puzzle competition fundraiser, where 44 racing teams of four went head-to-head. The fastest 500-piece team, Easy Piecey Lemon Squeezy, stunned the crowd by finishing in just 44 minutes and 35 seconds. In the 300-piece division, Paw Paw’s Puzzle Pals took first place with an incredible time of 24 minutes and 2 seconds. For the first year ever, we introduced a junior division—and The Guitars proudly claimed the win at 32 minutes and 18 seconds. The cheers, laughter, and teamwork in the room showed that this family-friendly fundraising event was about more than puzzles. It was about community, hope, and standing together for Piper.
Why This Fundraiser Matters
Events like Puzzles for Piper highlight the power of community fundraisers for rare disease research and awareness. By hosting a unique charity puzzle race, we brought puzzle lovers of all ages together for a cause that desperately needs attention. Families affected by DYNC1H1-related disorders often face uncertainty, as there are currently no approved treatments. Fundraisers like this one make it possible to push forward with DYNC1H1 research funding and open the door to future therapies. It’s proof that even the simplest activities—a puzzle race—can fuel life-changing progress when people come together with determination.
Gratitude and Next Steps
This was just the beginning. Our family is deeply grateful to everyone who participated, donated, and spread awareness about DYNC1H1-related disorders. Your generosity ensures that the DYNC1H1 Association can continue funding critical research that brings us closer to treatments and, one day, a cure. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of this journey with Piper and with us. Together, we are turning hope into action. We can't wait to see you next year!
