Barrett Otis Research Fund for Males
The Barrett Otis Research Fund for Males with Rett, established in 2023, aims to enhance understanding and develop treatments for males with Rett syndrome. Contributions to this fund support studies aimed at improving the lives of affected boys and men.

Rett Syndrome in Males
It was initially incorrectly believed that males could not have Rett syndrome. We now know that is not true; males do have Rett and many more than originally believed. However, there is still much research to be done to drive our understanding of this rapidly growing community of Rett patients. There is no reason to believe that most research and treatments will not work for men and boys with Rett syndrome.
Representing Males with Rett
Rick and Alyssa Otis established this fund in 2023 in honor of their son, Barrett. Like many boys with Rett, his battle was intense from day one when they realized how much misinformation there was in the community about males with the disorder. Thanks to their close connection to IRSF, the Otis’s have never felt alone on Barrett’s Rett journey and are committed to working with other families to make research focused on males a reality. They are proud to establish this fund with an inaugural gift.

“For males with Rett (MECP2), research initiatives like this, provided by a foundation that cares about these conditions, are direly needed. Males with Rett are so often overlooked in the search for a cure, yet their community is steadily and rapidly growing. The Barrett Otis Research Fund will undoubtedly stimulate research driving our understanding of this severe neurodevelopmental disorder forward on the way to clinical trials.”
Dr. Bernhard Suter
Support the Cause.
There are many ways to join the fight against Rett syndrome. You can raise awareness, get involved in grassroots advocacy, or explore other impactful opportunities. Every action matters. Together, we can transform the lives of those living with Rett.