Twice the Fun

One of our young members wished to submit her own story, in her own words. We are proud to introduce Ema.

FIRST by Ema H. (8 years old)

FIRST is a foundation that people with ichthyosis use. FIRST stands for "Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types."  I was born with ichthyosis. I have been working hard on my skin so it won't dry up or heat up, from that day on. My skin does not function properly like some other people’s do. The type of ichthyosis I have is CIE. CIE stands for congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma. Every two years there is an ichthyosis conference somewhere. Like last year my mom and I went to Denver. Every two years I get super excited because trips are so fun and I love to explore with my family. FIRST helps people, like doctors, know what a baby had if a baby has ichthyosis.” ~ Ema

One message is loud and clear - ichthyosis has certainly not hindered Ema’s zest for life.  In fact, when she is not songwriting and singing, you may just find her choreographing dance routines with a few close friends (hip hop especially!). She rides her bike whenever she can and she loves to read. She is now even learning to choose her own healthy recipes and helps mom prepare them in the kitchen. 

By all accounts, Ema knows joy. 

But, - Ema also shares joy.  As a part of Ema’s skin care routine she is required to take two baths every day, but that fact simply does not faze her in the least. “Two baths are twice the fun!” she said. 

Imagine a world where we all shared Ema’s attitude.  Would it be more peaceful?  More tolerant?  Would it in fact be…twice the fun?

Sometimes, some people are simply born with a spirit that cannot be broken, and, Ema is certainly one of them.

What's Your Story? We'd Love to Hear It!

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Neither FIRST, its Board of Directors, Medical & Scientific Advisory Board, Board of Medical Editors, nor Foundation staff and officals endorse any treatments listed here.  All issues pertaining to the care of patients with ichthyosis should be discussed with a dermatologist experienced in the treatment of their skin disorder.