The Film
Lorenzo's Oil is a 1992 film starring Susan Sarandon and Nick Nolte based on the true story of Augusto and Michaela Odone, parents who discovered what they hoped would be a cure for their son Lorenzo's adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). Sarandon was nominated for an Academy Award for her portrayal of Michaela.
The film depicts the Odones controversial discovery of a drinkable extract of rapeseed and olive oil (Lorenzo's Oil). It reduces levels of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs), which are elevated in patients with ALD. Although Loenzo’s Oil did not cure Lorenzo of ALD, it is widely believed it benefitted his health and prolonged his life (he lived to be 30). Today, Lorenzo’s Oil is a treatment for pre-onset ALD, often delaying symptoms of the disease for years.
The Odones later founded the Myelin Project, an ally in today's fight to pass Aidan’s Law.
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