When Monica LaMura learned that her two-year-old son Colin had been diagnosed with Angelman syndrome, she did what many parents in the FAST community do: she turned her love into action. Just months after the diagnosis, Monica and her family hosted their very first fundraiser for FAST, rallying their community around a cause that has become deeply personal.
The LaMuras organized Rally for a Cure a tennis-themed event that brought together almost 50 children, their families, local high school volunteers, and small businesses for a day of play with a powerful purpose. Using six tennis courts, the children rotated through skill-building stations focused on footwork, hand-eye coordination, and groundstroke development. Two of the courts featured Red Ball Tennis, a modified version of the game played on smaller courts with slower-moving balls. This adaptation made tennis more accessible for children of all ages and abilities.
The event was supported by local sponsors who donated food, raffle prizes, and giveaways. The local high school tennis team also joined in, leading on-court demonstrations and helping with skill development activities. In total, the event raised approximately $5,000 for FAST.
Monica also secured a sizable grant through her employer, the United States Tennis Association, to help support families who want to organize similar tennis-based fundraisers in their own communities.
The LaMura family's event will be featured in an upcoming issue of Fairfield Lifestyle magazine. The article will highlight their journey with Colin and the creative ways they are supporting FAST's mission.
This is only the beginning. The LaMuras are committed to building on this momentum and helping others take action for individuals living with Angelman syndrome.
Meet Monica in Orlando – She will also be setting up a tennis activation at the 2025 FAST Global Science Summit & Gala community event on Thurs, November 6th in Orlando, FL, where families can learn more about how to bring tennis to their next fundraiser!