Touched By A Star.

When celebrities shine their luster on a cause, small miracles and big research dollars often follow. Sure, some celebs may align themselves with charities to enhance their public image: a donation here, a photo op there. But many others take such causes far more seriously. "The only thing celebrity is good for is to bring attention to things that need attention," says Julianne Moore, who used her stardom to shine a light on Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, a little-known yet relatively common genetic disorder. Stars are often persuaded to go the extra mile through a chance encounter that over time grows into a heartfelt and deeply personal connection. As the following stories show, these relationships can be both painful and poignant. But many others take such causes far more seriously.