My Family’s Story – Pasquale (Pat) Imbimbo Jr.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can present significant difficulties for individuals and families. With my oldest son, John, challenges started as soon as he was born. At just 22 days old, he had his first open heart surgery due to complications from his condition.

Jameson and Dominic are my 15-year-old twins. Jameson cannot communicate at all; he is non-verbal and struggles. Dominic can talk, but in “cartoon speak.” Although he is 15 years old, he behaves like he is only five. My wife and I strive to provide them with a better life, which is why we started our farm: to give them meaningful work opportunities. However, we cannot do the science part. That is where MMRI comes in.

Autism Research at MMRI:

Through cutting-edge research initiatives, Dr. Maria Kontaridis and her team are uncovering new insights into the complex genetics of ASD. They are making leaps and bounds here at MMRI, identifying novel genes that can potentially lead to new drug targets for the treatment of patients with autism.