The organization said the gift will support critical research and drug development for 5p- syndrome and praised Davidson for using his public profile to bring attention to a community that often goes unseen. The foundation noted the disorder affects about 50 to 60 babies annually.
Called Cri du Chat for its characteristic high-pitched cry, the genetic disorder can include low-set ears, a small jaw and a round face, and may lead to speech delays, intellectual disabilities and heart defects, according to the Cleveland Clinic.