Story Behind the Books
The Arlene series was written to raise much-needed awareness about the most common hereditary neuropathy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, or CMT. Although 2.6 million people live with CMT, too many people have never heard of the condition.
That is about to change, thanks to Arlene. The character and book were inspired by Grace Caldarone, a young girl living with CMT and facing each day with optimism, courage, and humor.

Co-author Marybeth Caldarone and her daughter Grace
A popular children’s book like Arlene on the Scene is just one way to increase awareness about CMT. Through the efforts of organizations like The Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation, we hope to see CMT on the national health care agenda and to secure funding for research into new treatments and supports for people living with CMT.
All earnings from book sales will be donated to help people living with CMT.