Results: The Super Sisters and Their Rare Pet Zebra
INAD, or Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy, is extremely rare, affecting only "one in a million" children. Two Louisiana parents are hoping that their new children’s book will help raise awareness for the rare genetic condition that two of their children are living with. The book’s title is a reference to an adage commonly used by doctors: “When you hear hoofbeats, think horses not zebras.” In this usage, “zebras” refer to very rare conditions like INAD. The story follows the adventures of the “Super Sisters” and their rare pet zebra, and helps explain INAD to other children. WAFB is my source for this survey.
1.
1.
INAD is a brain condition that affects the nervous system in young children, caused by excess iron buildup in the brain, and can lead to rapid developmental regression, with children losing the ability to move or speak. It is extremely rare, affecting only about one in a million children, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, and symptoms often begin showing before 3 years of age. Had you ever heard of this extremely rare condition before this survey?
Yes
7%
•
85 votes
No
65%
•
750 votes
Undecided
7%
•
86 votes
Not Applicable
20%
•
234 votes
2.
2.
Charles and Curtshandra Duplechain's oldest daughter, 10-year-old Jade, and youngest, 6-year-old Ivory, have both been diagnosed with Infantile Neuroaxonal Dystrophy, or INAD, while their sister Emery, 8, has not. Were you aware that genetic disorders can effect some members in a family, but completely skip others?
Yes
43%
•
495 votes
No
26%
•
305 votes
Undecided
10%
•
114 votes
Not Applicable
21%
•
241 votes
3.
3.
In October 2025, the parents of three, who live in Baton Rouge, LA., published a book about their daughters' experience living with INAD: The Super Sisters And Their Rare Pet Zebra. Along with publishing the book, the Duplechains are also helping raise money for a gene therapy trial. According to the Inadcure Foundation, a gene therapy trial is "currently the best hope for children afflicted with INAD." Do you feel hope when you think of how modern medicine may be able to help people afflicted with rare disorders?
Yes
55%
•
632 votes
No
9%
•
106 votes
Undecided
14%
•
160 votes
Not Applicable
22%
•
257 votes
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