James Raffone, the driving force behind JAR of Hope, is dedicated to eradicating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a terminal muscle-wasting disease with no cure currently available. Following his son Jamesy’s diagnosis with DMD in 2013, Raffone founded JAR of Hope, aiming to increase awareness and fund research for this devastating disease.

JAR of Hope is renowned for its creative fundraising efforts, including unique events like record-breaking Lego builds and a Push-up Campaign that engaged over 217 gyms and 50 schools globally. Raffone’s own personal endeavors have been both inspiring and impactful; he is one of the few individuals from Staten Island and New Jersey to climb Mt. Everest. His commitment extends to grueling endurance challenges, such as participating in a 171-mile desert race multiple times and completing a 100-mile walk in Australia. For a decade, Raffone has also run in the NYC Marathon. He collaborated with CrimsonRise to amplify their fundraising, and mentored them to set up the CrimsonRise Waterfront 5k/1-mile Run Walk.

Raffone’s advocacy has achieved significant recognition, earning him three Keys to Cities and the opportunity to ring the closing bell at the NY Stock Exchange. His efforts have catalyzed legislative changes in New York, significantly increasing the Duchenne research budget by $2 million annually. Groundbreaking private studies and treatments, including his son being the first in the US to receive intravenous stem cells and explore HBOT for cardiac health, underscore the advancements in regenerative medicine driven by JAR of Hope.

James Raffone’s relentless pursuit to save his son and find a cure for DMD through JAR of Hope is a testament to his profound dedication and the global impact of his work.