How The Stand Together Conference is Unique This Year

This year’s summer event is going to look a little different than other years. Find out what you can expect when you attend the Stand Together Advocacy Conference and how you’ll leave empowered to advocate for yourself at home and on Capitol Hill!

Financial Consultant Gives Heart and Time to Help Her Son’s Tribe

Marianne Vermeer’s “guardian angel” of a dentist encouraged her to get involved with the NFED. She jumped all in becoming an active volunteer and member of the Board of Directors. Read about the powerful moment she had as a volunteer and what she’s learned about children with ectodermal dysplasia.

My Motto: Never Ever Give Up

Meet Nicole, a determined 14-year-old girl who is using her voice on Capitol Hill to advocate for herself and others. She would like you to join her. Learn why she’s advocating and what you can do to help.

ELSA Advocates Raise Their Voices in DC at NFED Hill Day

The air felt electric on September 19th as 172 advocates marched to the steps of the United States Capitol Building in Washington D.C.., ready to advocate for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA). Read about this amazing day and what’s happening next for this important legislation.

What I Would Tell My Middle School Self

For her entire life, dentists told Finlay she would have to wait till adulthood to get treatment for her missing teeth. They didn’t seem to understand how having missing and misshapen teeth was affecting her. Find out what her frustrated parents did to get her treatment and how this experience has impacted the teenager’s outlook.

Longing for a Community of People Who Understand

Nicholle was searching for someone who understood what it’s like to always smile with your lips closed so people don’t see your missing teeth. Who know how frustrating it is to visit dentist after dentist trying to find someone who actually wants to treat you. Were there adults out there who know the pressure of trying to find more than $30,000 just so you can have teeth to bite into chicken with? Read her story to learn about her search and how she’s relieved to no longer feel so alone.

Remembering Mary K. Richter With Great Love

Our hearts are heavy. The matriarch of our National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) family, Mary K. Richter recently died. We know this has come as a shock for our community. Amidst our profound sadness, join us as we remember this incredible woman.

Committed Advocates Inspire Action in the Senate

With about six weeks left in the 117th session of Congress, the mood on Capitol Hill feels hopeful and positive for getting the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) passed! Team ELSA participated in our third virtual Advocacy Day this year. Find out where things stand on the bill and how you can help.