(By Marina Biltcliff ’26, staff writer)
Each year, an LVC student and her family make a difference by hosting the world’s largest fundraiser for a rare genetic disease.
This March Jessica O’Neill, senior marketing major, and her family will put on the 17th annual bingo event to raise money for Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP). FOP is a genetic disease that turns muscles, ligaments and other soft tissues into bone, significantly impacting the mobility of those who have it. One in two million people have this disease, and it currently has no cure.
O’Neill’s cousin, Joshua Scoble, was born with FOP. Scoble’s diagnosis brought O’Neill’s family together to create a large annual fundraiser event to raise money for FOP and help families affected by this disease.
“I look forward to the bingo every year,” O’Neill said. “It’s so great to see our loyal bingo players return and see new faces that get to learn about FOP.”
The bingo fundraiser has more than 1,600 players each year, as well as 120 volunteers to run the various events. In addition to bingo, the event has a bake sale and tons of raffle baskets, all donated by local volunteers and community members.
“I love working with my family to create an event that people want to support,” O’Neill said. “I take pride in knowing that my family’s efforts have helped fund researchers, doctors and clinical trials that will hopefully get us closer to finding a cure.”
Throughout the 17 years this event has taken place, more than $1.4 million has been raised to support research for FOP. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, March 23, at 1 p.m. and aims to raise more money for the cause than in any previous year.
Those interested in this event can visit www.joshuasfop.com to learn more and register to play, volunteer or donate to the foundation.
