Coming together to support the PWS community
Many people have never heard of Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) — a rare and complex genetic condition that affects individuals and families every day.
Every May, Conn3cted goes orange to help raise awareness and encourage greater understanding of PWS.
Our CXO and co-founder, Emily Garcia, is mum to Ella, who was born with PWS. As a family, they experience the daily realities and challenges of living with this lifelong condition, and each year we’re proud to stand alongside them in helping educate others and shine a light on the experiences of those living with PWS.
What is Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)?
Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare and highly complex genetic disorder caused by the deletion or absence of genes on chromosome 15 that are normally inherited from the father.
One of the most significant characteristics of PWS is hyperphagia — a chronic and overwhelming feeling of hunger. People living with PWS do not receive the signal that tells the brain when the stomach is full, meaning food intake must be carefully managed to help prevent serious health complications.
At the same time, individuals with PWS often have lower muscle mass and require fewer calories than their peers, making everyday management incredibly challenging for families and carers.
PWS can also affect:
- Growth and metabolism
- Muscle tone and strength
- Learning and development
- Emotional regulation and behaviour
- Sleep and hormone production
Through our month-long PWS awareness campaign, we hope to foster greater understanding, spark important conversations, and reinforce the importance of ongoing research, support and improved quality of life for people living with PWS.
Conn3cted's PWS Awareness campaign
Throughout May, our team turns Conn3cted orange across social media, in our office, and through community initiatives to help foster empathy and conversation around PWS.
Over the years, we’ve:
- Shared educational content about PWS
- Supported the Prader-Willi Syndrome Australia (PWSA)
- Hosted orange-themed morning teas in our office
- Encouraged staff to wear orange and get involved
- Fundraised for PWRFA to support research and family resources
Each year, our campaign is about helping bring greater visibility to PWS, encouraging meaningful connection, and standing alongside individuals and families living with the condition.
Sharing Ella's story
Behind every awareness campaign is a real person, a real family, and real everyday experiences. Through sharing Ella’s story, we hope to create greater understanding, compassion and connection around life with PWS.
Go Orange through the years
Each year, we close out PWS Awareness Month with an orange team photo — a small tradition that has become a meaningful part of Conn3cted culture.
Learn more about PWS
To learn more about Prader-Willi Syndrome or support the cause, visit the Prader-Willi Syndrome Australia or Prader-Willi Research Foundation Australia.
You can also follow our Orange for PWS campaign each May on social media: