8-Year-Old Boy Raises Nearly $1 Million Towards Cure Of Best Friend's Rare Disease

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — An 8-year-old boy that self-published a picture book has raised nearly $1 million to help cure his best friend's rare disease.

Author Dylan Siegel came up with the idea to create a book about a boy who dreams that his words and pictures will help find a cure for his best friend's rare disease and change the world.

Siegel's friend, Jonah Pournazarian, suffers from a rare liver condition called Glycogen Storage Disease 1B.

In 2012, Siegel wrote and published the book titled "Chocolate Bar", which originally sold to many family members and friends.

Over the course of two years, Siegel has sold 20,000 copies, which raised over $900,000, so far.

"I am so so so excited to be able to help my friend," said Siegel. "I am thankful to people everywhere for letting me share my story and inspire kids to change the world!"

CBS2's Lisa Sigell originally shared Siegel's story at a school fundraiser where he first raised $5,000 towards the cure.

Siegel, joined by Pournazarian and the student body of Wise Elementary School, celebrated the two year anniversary of the book.

The two boys read to students on Sunday, took photos and signed autographs.

Copies were available for purchase from 8:30 a.m. to noon, along with chocolate bars, bracelets, tattoos and T-shirts.

The picture book is now available for purchase at local events throughout the country and online.

All of the proceeds are being donated to the University of Florida, where research is underway to help find a cure.

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