Working together toward a cure
Why an Elephant Logo?
Acknowledging our Collaborator
We are deeply grateful to Valérie Salomone, our colleague in advocacy and the founder of Les Extra-Vaillants MYT1L, the pioneering foundation in France. Valérie’s dedication to supporting families and advancing awareness of MYT1L-related syndromes has been a guiding light in this community.
With her kind permission, we’ve drawn inspiration from the logo she created for Les Extra-Vaillants MYT1L, featuring the beloved elephant that has become a symbol of strength, resilience, and community.
We are honored to continue this journey alongside Valérie and her foundation, building on her work to connect families, foster research, and bring greater awareness to MYT1L.
Why an elephant? For its values: a deep sense of family, solidarity, and the ability to feel and express deep emotions. The goal is to foster community support, provide accurate information, ensure better recognition of the needs of those with MYT1L differences, and advance medical research.
When the association was created, we kept coming across the Indian proverb,"If you see everything in grey, push the elephant." While our elephant can’t push itself, it can be brought to live with the colors of hope and diversity, highlighting the positive energy and strength this majestic animal represents. Through this logo, we express a vision of unity, momentum, and optimism.
Valérie Solomone
President, Les Extra-Valliants MYT1L
The name of our sister foundation in France, Les Extra-Vaillants MYT1L, carries deep meaning and pays tribute to the unique qualities of individuals with MYT1L syndrome.
• “Extra” reflects how people with disabilities are often described in France. It is a prefix that can mean both “extraordinary” (as in different from neurotypical) and “extra-ordinaire” (as in incredible, like having superpowers). This dual meaning celebrates their uniqueness and strength.
• “Vaillant” translates to “valiant,” symbolizing bravery, courage, and determination. It honors the resilience, fighting spirit, and willpower of those living with MYT1L syndrome and their families.
Together, “Les Extra-Vaillants MYT1L” conveys the incredible strength and heroic nature of this community, reminding us all that these individuals are truly extraordinary.