Understanding the WNT10A Gene

In recent years, we have learned that one gene is now the cause for three different types of ectodermal dysplasia. Learn more about the gene called WNT10A and how it manifests.

Made With Love

With two young sons affected by hyphidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, Anissa Morgan has faced insurance denials, numerous hospitalizations, child care issues and finding doctors to treat them. That’s on top of learning how to care for their varied symptoms. But this determined mother has learned lessons along the way and is teaching her sons that they are well loved. Learn more here.

Family-driven Grassroots Action is the Answer

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.

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.

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.