A Chance for Marieta and Denitsa: A Family Raises Funds for AUTS2 Research
Marieta and Denitsa are twin sisters with AUTS2 syndrome—a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development and presents children and their families with significant daily challenges. To support scientific research and the development of future therapies, their parents created the children’s book Fun Mischief for Two Twin Sisters.
The girls are cheerful, curious, and love life like any other children. Behind every smile and every new skill they achieve, however, are countless hours of therapy, constant effort, patience, and the unconditional support of their family.
Marieta and Denitsa do not speak and are completely dependent on their parents for daily care. Every week, they attend behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For them, every new word, movement, or small step toward independence is a true victory.
AUTS2 syndrome is caused by changes in the gene of the same name, which plays an important role in the development and functioning of brain cells. The condition can lead to severe developmental delays, difficulties with speech and movement, intellectual disabilities, and features associated with the autism spectrum.
At present, no medication has been specifically developed to treat AUTS2 syndrome. Support for affected children is primarily based on early physical, speech, behavioral, and occupational therapy. This is why ongoing scientific research offers tremendous hope to families facing this rare diagnosis.
In 2026, the AUTS2 Research Collaborative launched an international campaign to support five promising scientific research projects. These projects explore possibilities for gene therapy, the mechanisms that switch the gene’s activity on and off, the creation of patient-derived stem cell models, mapping the function of AUTS2 in human brain cells, and the discovery of biomarkers to monitor future therapies. According to the family, the total budget for these projects is $450,000. The official AUTS2gether 2026 campaign aims to raise $300,000 to accelerate research and build effective therapies for the future.
To contribute, Marieta and Denitsa’s parents created Fun Mischief for Two Twin Sisters. Every purchased copy supports scientific projects that may one day change the lives of not only the two girls but all children worldwide living with AUTS2 syndrome. The book costs €10. Orders can be placed by phone at 0887 434 404 or by sending a private message on Facebook to Petar Pochaleev.
Anyone wishing to support the cause can also make a donation through the family’s official campaign page. Marieta and Denitsa do not need pity. They need a chance — a chance to communicate, become more independent, and continue discovering the world.
Today, each of us can help write their story. Tomorrow, it could become the story of a scientific breakthrough and a life-changing therapy.
