Mitchell Brubaker During October, Terri and Mark Brubaker of Simi Valley are working to raise awareness and funds for Niemann-Pick disease, a rare genetic and terminal illness that affects their 20-year-old son, Mitchell Brubaker.

Mitchell is a graduate of Grace Brethren Elementary School, Hillside Middle School and Santa Susana High School.

The Brubakers will participate in several events to benefit the National Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation, which raises funds for research and provides support services for families who are facing the challenges of the disease.

The “Cans for a Cure” event will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fri. and Sat., Oct. 30 and 31 at Centerpoint Church, 2369 Royal Ave., Simi Valley. Aluminum cans and plastic water bottles will be collected.

Golden Spoon Yogurt stores in Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Agoura and Newbury Park will make a donation to the foundation for every purchase made on Oct. 16 and 18. Patrons should mention the Niemann-Pick fundraiser at the time of purchase on those dates.

Stella and Dot Jewelry consultant Lisa Sepe will donate a portion of the proceeds from jewelry sold during October in honor of Mitchell Brubaker. Visit www.stelladot.com/lisasepe, click “find your hostess” and enter Terri Brubaker’s name.

The foundation is also launching its first nationwide online auction fundraiser. A variety of auction items, including trips, jewelry and sports memorabilia, are available for bidding at www.nnpdf .cmarket.com.

Niemann-Pick disease causes accumulation of fats in the cells of the liver, spleen and brain. When cell function is blocked, physical and neurological deterioration occurs, including the loss of the ability to walk, speak and swallow. For more information, visit www.nnpdf.org or e-mail nnpdf@nnpdf.org.