Cameron Mathison (ex-Ryan Lavery) proved that he has abs of gold when he played All My Children's Ryan Lavery, and now he's showing that he has a heart of gold, as well (at least to those who didn't already know it, of course). The Canadian actor has teamed up with Who Wants to Be a Millionaire to help raise potential funds for the Legg Calve Perthes Foundation, where he's an honorary board member.
Mathison is set to compete on the Tuesday, February 26, episode of the game show and plans to donate all of his winnings to the charity, which is dedicated to improving research, education, advocacy, and awareness of Perthes Disease.
According to the official press release to publicize Mathison's Millionaire appearance, Legg Calve Perthes Disease is a childhood hip disorder initiated by a disruption of blood flow to the ball of the femur called the femoral head. Due to the lack of blood flow, the bone dies (osteonecrosis or avascular necrosis) and stops growing. The life cycle and regrowth of the disease process can take several years and is often accompanied with pain, which can lead to osteoarthritis in adulthood. Perthes disease is one of the most common hip disorders in young children, and there is no known cause or cure.
Says Mathison about his upcoming challenge: "I am so honored to play and donate earnings from Millionaire to the Foundation."
The Legg Calve Perthes Foundation founder Colleen Rathgeber is equally honored, stating, "Regardless of the earnings from the show, the opportunity to raise awareness of this rare childhood hip disorder on a national stage is incredible, and we are so grateful to Cameron for choosing the Foundation."
Mathison starred as AMC's Ryan from 1998 to 2011. He currently works as a co-host on Entertainment Tonight, frequently guest stars on Hallmark's Home and Family, and has appeared in a slew of Hallmark Murder She Baked movies.
Who wants to be a Millionaire is currently in syndication and is hosted by Chris Harrison, who is best-known for his 15 years as the popular host of ABC's hit romance/reality series The Bachelor and The Bachelorette.
For more information on Perthes disease and the Legg Calve Perthes Foundation, click here.
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