My son, Elliot, was born with a rare genetic deletion called “11q” or “Jacobsen Syndrome” (J.S.), and began his life with a risky open-heart surgery at just two weeks old.

In the 17 years since he was born, my family and I have been raising funds to support the groundbreaking research of Dr. Paul Grossfeld, who (with his lab team) studies the genetic basis of pediatric heart defects and cognitive disabilities in children.

And when I say, “my family,” I’m also talking about my How I Met Your Mother family. Back at the 20th Century Fox lot, the cast, crew, and friends would gather for annual fundraisers right on Stage 22 where we filmed the show. These were the brainchild of my wife, Rebecca Alson-Milkman, (who was also, B-T-Dubs, the inspiration for one Lily Aldrin). Dedicated to this work, Rebecca understood that the HIMYM community — so generous, so personally invested in Elliot’s journey — would welcome the opportunity to donate their time and resources to this imporant cause.

More recently, I’ve hosted HIMYM-themed fundraising concerts in New York City (and yes, there will be more!) with the help of wonderful series alums like HIMYM co-creator Carter Bays, our band, the Solids (of HIMYM theme-song “fame”), Josh Radnor, Ashley Williams, Will Forte, Matthew Caws, along with, most importantly, my incredible son locking it down on the drum kit behind us.

Now, as the hometown charitable cause of HOW WE MADE YOUR MOTHER, Josh and I, along with our producer, Alek Lev, are creating How You Made a Difference, which is your chance to support Dr. Grossfeld in his mission to help kids like Elliot.

For our Jacobnsen Syndrome community, Dr. Grossfeld is a beacon of light in the dark, offering life-saving advice, singular expertise and crucial guidance from afar to our local doctors, who often know nothing about 11q. Dr. G is the worldwide expert in Jacobsen Syndrome and his lab is the only one on Earth robustly studying the genetic basis of its many health and developmental implications.

Despite being so crucial to so many, Dr. G’s research is always looking for funding to stay afloat. With federal funding harder than ever to procure, Dr. G's lab would simply close without the support of kind-hearted folks like you! Every penny counts!

So, on behalf of so many families like our own, we thank you. 100% OF YOUR DONATION GOES DIRECTLY TO DR. G’S RESEARCH (Zero overhead!) Plus, we’d encourage you to ask if your employer has a matching program. You could double your donation!