We can’t think of a lovelier way to acknowledge all of the hard work you do than by setting aside the month of April to recognize and thank you and all of our volunteers. Just last year alone we had 364 volunteers who dedicated more than 3,652 hours to the NFED. That is truly amazing! …
Need to be Needed? Beverly Meier's Response?
By Cathy Deters The year I retired from a teaching career (2008), I knew I would need to do something to occupy the time I had spent in the classroom. There was a void in my life and I wasn’t sure how to fill it. My dear friend, Beverly Meier, suggested that I volunteer for…
My Story: Emotional Resilience and Hope
by Marcela Hernandez Lack of confidence has daunted me all my life, from childhood and even into my adult life. I was born and raised in Uruguay, a small country in South America, the youngest child of a middle class family. They supported me and gave me everything within their possibilities, from material things such…
Why I Volunteer for NFED: My Son and Others Like Him
By Jill Radley I found the NFED in 1992, upon the recommendation of my childhood dentist at the University of Minnesota. When I received the literature packets I had a light bulb moment. I looked at the pictures and I felt that I was looking in the mirror. It explained so much to me. I…
Wigs
Some people are comfortable with their appearance and may find a wig unnecessary. Others choose to wear wigs to improve self-image and increase self-confidence in social situations. The decision to wear a wig is, and should be, a personal choice. A child should not be forced to wear a wig. Providing the option to wear…
The NFED Doesn't Need You!
Who needs volunteers? Not the NFED. We can do without volunteers! No need to ask for a helping hand, our staff can do it all. Why create a strong Volunteer base? Volunteers are overrated, a nuisance, and a royal pain. Today is a celebration of mischief and misbehavior. It has become tradition on the first…
What A 10-Year Old Girl With HED Wants Her Dentists to Know
The following is a speech delivered by 10-year old Allison at a Dental Pathology Class in the Dental Hygienist Program at Des Moines Area Community College. She and her mother, Jenny, presented at the class for Ectodermal Dysplasias Awareness Month. Hi everyone, my name is Allison. I am a 4th grader in Iowa. My parents tell me that…
15 Reasons to Attend Family Conference
I could list way more than 15 reasons why you join meet us in St. Louis this July. But, this list will get you started. Tour St. Louis: Did you know St. Louis has cheese you can get nowhere else? Refresh and Recharge: Take a few days off from your busy schedule and relax and…