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Englewood Trailblazer Inspired By His Children's Rare Disease

ENGLEWOOD, N.J. – Englewood native and Bergen Catholic graduate John F. Crowley has gone to great lengths to find a cure for Pompe Disease, a rare and deadly degenerative neuromuscular disorder.

John F. Crowley is pictured with his daughter Megan and wife Aileen.

John F. Crowley is pictured with his daughter Megan and wife Aileen.

Photo Credit: John F. Crowley Facebook Page

Crowley, a biotech executive and entrepreneur, will discuss his journey at Montclair State University on Monday, March 20, at 8 p.m.

Pompe Disease affects just 5,000 to 10,000 people worldwide, according to pompe.com. Two of those people are Crowley’s children, Megan and Patrick.

RELATED: Elmwood Park Students Rally For Rare Disease Fighters

In 2000, Crowley became Chief Executive Officer of a company researching an experimental treatment for the disease. When the company was acquired by Genzyme the next year, Crowley led its global Pompe program. For Crowley’s children, an experimental trial of Genzyme’s enzyme replacement therapy was a lifesaver.

Crowley’s fight for his children and others battling the rare disease inspired the 2010 film, Extraordinary Measures, starring Harrison Ford, Brendan Fraser and Keri Russell.

Crowley’s lecture is free and open to the public. Registration is required by Wednesday, March 15. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER. 

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