Two Alaskan families have helped achieve an amazing feat. The Brubakers and Wentzels have every legislator in their state co-sponsoring the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA)! This month, we shine our volunteer spotlight on these Alaskans to celebrate their accomplishments and learn more about how they did it.
Why Genetic Testing is Critical in HED
If you or someone you love is affected by hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED), a doctor or dentist may have made the clinical diagnosis based on symptoms. Or, maybe HED runs in your family and you “just know” that you or your child have it. So, why would you want to get genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis? There are many benefits. But, most importantly because the first treatment for the X-linked recessive type of HED is being studied in a clinical trial.
The Dickie Family’s Full Circle Moments with Ectodermal Dysplasia
John Dickie IV was a young adult when he attended his first NFED Family Conference in 1987. His eyes were opened when he saw older guys affected by ectodermal dysplasia who had families and careers. Their lasting impression made him and his family want to give back to the NFED family, too. Read about the Dickies’ ectodermal dysplasia journey, their love for the NFED, John’s adventures and the advice he has for parents.
Let’s Celebrate 40 Years of NFED Success!
The National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) turned 40 years old on December 24, 2021. Normally, we would have recognized this milestone throughout last year. But, the pandemic caused us to shift our plans. Find out what we all have planned for this celebration year!
Have a Magical Holiday, NFED Family!
Please watch and enjoy this holiday greeting from our NFED staff. If only it could include all of the thousands of faces we had the honor of serving this year. May you and your family experience the incredible joys of the holiday season!
Growing Up with the NFED: Meet Virginia
Virginia Higgins was just five years old when her mom, Fredia Shimchick, heard about a mom in the area who was looking for other families affected ectodermal dysplasias. Their family would be one of the first 12 families who called NFED their ectodermal dysplasia home. Find out about her love for the NFED family and why she gives back.
15 Ways to Help Your Child Get Ready for Dental Visits and Dentures
How do you help your little ones affected by ectodermal dysplasia prepare for all of the dentist visits they need? What can you do to explain and show them what getting dentures is going to be like? Check out our resources and suggestions for how to make your child’s experience at the dentist be a positive one.
Team Nikko Finds Home in the NFED
Dave Reidenouer is the kind of dad and grandpa who jumps in to help when his family needs him. For him, family means, “coming together to overcome obstacles and challenges, working together to do fun and good things.” And that’s exactly what his family has done since their first grandchild, Nikko Vecchini, was born affected by hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. Read how the NFED became their lifeline.