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.
Marching On After Diagnosis
Jonathan Weil tells the story of how his family grew in strength and knowledge after his daughter, Maddie’s, diagnosis with ecodermal dysplasias. They’ve come a long way from feeling helpless.
Share Your Story with the Press
Sharing stories with local press is a powerful tool to raise awareness about ectodermal dysplasias and the challenges many face getting the health insurance coverage they need. Christine Gottschalk details how families and individuals can raise awareness for the Ensuing Lasting Smiles Act through the press.
A Wild Yet Silent Thunderstorm
Heather Martin struggled to find answers after her son Isaiah did not fully develop teeth from birth. She was told by multiple dentists that his teeth should be capped, but she did not listen. Follow Heather’s journey as she fianlly finds the answers she was looking for in a diagnosis.
Advocacy from the Classroom to Capitol Hill
Aidan Abbott tells us about his journey as an advocate for himself and the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.
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.
Our Baby Struggled to Swallow
Baby Oakley had a hard time feeding. Watching your baby not be able to swallow can be terrifying. He had projectile vomiting and wasn’t gaining weight. His parents begged doctors to help their baby boy. A hospital stay and many tests later, they figured it out. This information coupled with a trip to the dentist led to a diagnosis of ectodermal dysplasias. Find out how Oakley is feeding now.
Hazel Glows With Her New Teeth
Your five-year-old daughter wearing her first dentures can be surreal. Just ask Sarah Hamilton. The mom shares about how the teeth have impacted Hazel’s eating and speech and how they are having to battle their insurance to get benefits.