Jen Steele’s life was forever changed in 2012, when her daughter, Alli, was diagnosed with ectodermal dysplasia. Her family spent the next few years commuting 240 miles round trip to the University of Iowa to meet with geneticists, doctors and dentists. She discovered the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) online and called for help and support. The Iowa mom quickly learned that Alli’s dental needs would exceed their financial abilities. She was not one to ask for help or be complacent and just accept the fact that their medical insurance would not cover Alli’s medical needs. With no political experience, the Steele family joined other NFED families in taking action to advocate for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.
Families Raise Awareness Around the World
Our community worldwide united online in February for Ectodermal Dysplasias Awareness Month! Our goal this year was to raise awareness about the symptoms, its impact on teeth and need for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act to get coverage for treatment. And you helped us do that!
What A Difference I Can Make
Your life can take a different path, one you never expected in a matter of a moment. Debbie’s changed when her first grandson was born. Little did she know on that day she would become a volunteer for the NFED.
Why We Need The Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act
The Abbott family spent several years trying to figure out why their young son, Aidan, was missing teeth and had recurring high fevers. Finally, they received an answer. Their son was affected by ectodermal dysplasia. Professionals assured them that insurance would cover the lifetime of dental care he would need to restore his teeth. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Denial after denial catapulted the Abbotts on a journey to fight for insurance benefits not only for their son, but all families affected by congenital anomalies. They found an ally in Congress who co-sponsored the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.
Ectodermal Dysplasias Classification
By J. Timothy Wright, DDS, MS How does one best diagnose and understand the clinical manifestations of an individual or family with an ectodermal dysplasia? Furthermore, what exactly is an ectodermal dysplasia? These questions have challenged affected individuals, clinicians and scientists for over 40 years. A decade ago, the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) embarked…
My $35,000 (So Far) Smile
Cody Snell has paid $35,000 out of pocket – so far – to replace teeth he never had due to ectodermal dysplasia. At 33, he knows that amount will climb since he faces a lifetime of dental care costs. That is, unless the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act is passed. He is advocating for this legislation to assure that he, his affected daughter and all families with his condition get the insurance coverage they need for their medically necessary care.
The Road Less Traveled
Priscilla and Ryan’s newborn baby struggled to feed in the neonatal intensive care unit. He just wouldn’t take a bottle and the family was frantic for answers as to why. The solution and ultimately an ectodermal dysplasia diagnosis came from their nurse, whose expertise was learned first-hand.
Breastfeeding Complications in Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia
Many mothers desire to breastfeed their baby. But, for women affected by hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasias, they may not be successful. Findings from a research study explain why the condition can impact your ability to breastfeed. Several women share their own personal experiences.