Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation

My name is Michael Orth, and I am raising money for sudden cardiac deaths. My younger brother, Matthew, passed away on February 8th, 2025 from what doctors believe to be cardiomyopathy or another type of cardiac condition. Matt was an otherwise seemingly healthy person besides a lingering cold/virus he had in the early winter months. Matt was the kindest and most gentlest person I ever met. He was 6'7 and his heart was also enlarged and it made sense given his loving and soft personality. He loved the beach, Philly sports, sports writing, Montclair State, and more than anything his family and friends. He was everyone's biggest cheerleader and supporter and all he wanted was for everyone to be happy and for his loved ones to be proud of him. If more people lived and loved the way Matt did, the world would be a better place. He was my best friend who would do anything with me, anytime. I miss his presence, his jokes, his memes, his comebacks, and more than anything his voice and laugh. I know I can't have him back, but if we can save others from tragedy through research, earlier detection, and awareness in his honor and memory, I know that is what he would want. He would want a silver lining in all of this and this campaign is just the start to that.

I never imagined I would be writing this, but life has a way of surprising us. My daughter, Sarah, was just 10 years old when she was diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, a rare heart condition that has no current treatment and one of several SADS condiitions. We had already lost two of her uncles to this condition at a very young age.

As a parent, there are no words to describe the fear and helplessness I felt when faced with this reality. Today, I’m sharing our family’s story to raise awareness and funds for SADS (Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome) conditions.

What is Brugada Syndrome:

Brugada syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the heart's electrical system, leading to irregular heartbeats. These irregularities can cause fainting, seizures, and in the worst cases, sudden cardiac arrest. What’s most frightening is that many people with Brugada syndrome (and other SADS conditions) don’t even know they have it until it’s too late, as these conditions often show no symptoms.

Why Awareness and Research Matter:

Sarah’s diagnosis was a wake-up call, showing us the silent risks many people, especially children, carry without knowing. Raising awareness is extremely important. By learning about these conditions, recognizing possible warning signs, and encouraging regular heart check-ups, we can take steps to protect our loved ones.

Awareness isn’t enough, we urgently need more research to develop treatments and, hopefully, find a cure for Brugada syndrome. Every bit of support brings us closer to that goal.

Join Me in Making a Difference:

I’ll be running my first marathon on September 25th with my best friend Alex. We are running for a cause, raising funds for research on behalf of Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation.

Please join us in this mission—whether through a donation, sharing our story, or simply learning more, your support can make a real difference.

Let’s together create a future where families like mine don’t have to live in fear, but instead, have access effective treatments. For this, funding more research is fundamental.

Thank you for supporting this cause and spreading the word.

With love,

Mila, Alex & Sarah.

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More information about Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation:

The Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes (SADS) Foundation is a leader in education, research and advocacy. Our Mission is to save the lives and support the families of children and young adults who are genetically predisposed to sudden death due to heart rhythm abnormalities. We provide education and support to patients and families who are dealing with these disorders.

Lean more here: https://sads.org