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.
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.
ELSA Reintroduced in Congress
ELSA took another leap forward today! The Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act was introduced in the new U.S. Congress with bi-partisan support in both the House and the Senate. 28 organizations are now supporting the bill which will provide insurance coverage for medical and dental care due to congenital anomalies such as ectodermal dysplasia.
My Son Has Only Six Teeth
Sheltered as a child because of ectodermal dysplasia, Beth Orchard is raising her kids differently. This advocate is giving her children the same opportunities as kids who can sweat and eat normally. She’s taking bold steps to make a difference and wants you to join her.
Fighting for Future Generations of My Family
Dylan Steyer is a three-year-old boy who simply wants to have teeth. He’s even asked his mom if he can have hers. Dylan only has 5 teeth due to hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. Learn what his mom, Laura is doing to fight for his right to dental care.
Children Don’t Need Teeth?
Kevin Koser doesn’t think he should have to explain to his son with ectodermal dysplasia that he can’t have teeth because health insurance companies don’t feel teeth are necessary. So, he’s taking action and getting others to join him in advocating for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.
ELSA Introduced in Congress
The Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) was introduced as a bill in the U.S Senate and House today. This legislation will significantly impact families affected by ectodermal dysplasias and other congenital anomalies. If passed, it will provide health benefits for their complex dental care.
Advocating for ELSA on Capitol Hill
Families from across the U.S. met with members of Congress on July 18 for the 2nd National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. They educated about ectodermal dysplasias and the need for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA).