The Paula And Woody Varner Science And Medicine Fund
Established in 2007 by the Wilkins Family in memory of John Wilkins’ beloved maternal grandparents, The Paula and Woody Varner Science and Medicine Fund (“The Varner Fund”) helps make possible many science and medicine initiatives that are critical to BSF’s mission. This includes an array of projects such as The Barth Syndrome Foundation Varner Award for Pioneer in Science and Medicine (“The Varner Award”) that publicly celebrates those who have made critical advances in scientific and medical knowledge, progressing our understanding or treatment of Barth syndrome, as well as selected research grants.
As John, who has Barth syndrome, explains, “In many ways the Barth Syndrome Foundation is a dream come true for my grandparents. My grandfather was proactive and a problem solver, and he wanted nothing more than to help find the answers to Barth syndrome.” Barth syndrome did not have a name until John was 11 years old, but both of his grandparents were unwavering in their dedication to find healthcare options that would help him.
Unfortunately, Woody died 8 months before the first meeting of Barth families in 2000. Paula helped fund that meeting in Baltimore, Maryland in his memory and became a visionary supporter of BSF. She believed in the possible and inspired hope when it was the only thing founding families could grasp onto. Paula and Woody helped give life to BSF in its infancy, and the Varner Fund continues to honor their legacy by supporting mission-critical work that stands to offer people like their grandson a chance at a better, healthier life.