When I sat down with Sam and Jennifer Hicks over breakfast in Boise, it didn’t take long to feel the warmth this family brings to everything they do. Sam is a National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) family liaison, a husband, father of two, and someone who has spent most of his life refusing to let…
Why We Still Need ELSA
Ten years later, we’re still fighting for ELSA—and it still matters. Soren and Morgan share why families need fair coverage and how advocacy brings hope. Learn what you can do to take action in your home state.
Finding Faith, Recovery and Confidence, One Smile at a Time
Paul grew up feeling different and was bullied for his teeth. He followed a dark path for many years before deciding he wanted a different life. Today, he’s sober, married and helping others. His journey is honest and hopeful and living proof that no matter your past, your future can still be bright.
The Hot Kid Turns Ectodermal Dysplasia Into His Super Power
What if the thing that held you back became your greatest edge? From overheating on the soccer field to describing himself as “The Hot Kid,” Finnegan shares how he handled being bullied and transformed it into something positive.
Pamela Keeps Dancing Through Life’s Challenges
Pamela has faced vision loss, joint replacements, and countless medical challenges, but she’s never stopped dancing. It took her 40 years and research into her birth family to learn her medical history and diagnosis. Read how this inspiring grandmother keeps moving forward and encourages others living with incontinentia pigmenti to do the same.
Finding My Diagnosis, My Voice and a Community That Gets It
Imagine going 37 years without knowing why you faced so many health struggles. That was Lindsey’s life until she finally got answers. In this blog, she shares her journey from silence to strength, how she found community, and why she’s determined to advocate for her kids.
A Great Dental Team Makes All the Difference
Maddie’s journey with ectodermal dysplasia took a transformative turn when she expressed a desire to change her smile. With guidance from the NFED and a dedicated team of specialists, she found a path that preserved her teeth while boosting her confidence. Read her inspiring story of resilience and expert care.
Magic Moments, Stories of Resilience at the NFED
Magic moments happen all the time at the NFED! Marianne from the Board recalls adopting her son, Peter, from China. Affected by Clouston syndrome, Peter attended his first NFED Family Conference as a teen. Find out how it changed him. Plus, read about other Board members’ magic moments.