Why Donate to FIRST?
A fair and valid question. And, in fact, one of the most rewarding and exciting parts of the job, for the staff at FIRST, is to provide the answer. Likely you are already aware that donating to FIRST will ensure the continuation of the Research Grant Program, whereby the top investigators in the field of ichthyosis research will be supported in their pursuits to find better treatments and an eventual cure. However, as the global leaders in ichthyosis advocacy and research, it is not only our job to bring public attention to this rare condition and support the advancement of research, but to also embrace those living with ichthyosis today, and to help them live a rich, fulfilling, and healthy life. Your donations make this possible.
Did you know that one of the programs supported by your donation is our Regional Support Network (RSN)? The RSN offers numerous connection opportunities including regional meetings, national conferences, FIRST to Know and FIRST Connects online videos and calls, and access to an extensive network of ichthyosis experts. It is one of the many programs funded by individual donations, corporate appeals, fundraising events, United Way and CFC donations, and private grants. FIRST does not receive any governmental funding; it is solely funded by individual and private donations.
Perhaps you have even attended one of our events, been connected to a doctor or family in your region, or gained some insight about ichthyosis on a FIRST to Know event? If so, you may have a deeper understanding of the critical need for these types of personal connections, as well as the rare opportunity to build relationships with the top doctors in the field of ichthyosis. The RSN offers life-changing connections that may not occur in any other situation. Your donations make these connections possible.
The ichthyosis community is a small and very close knit community. We have witnessed the relief people feel when they have someone to talk to who really understands what it is like to have a child with ichthyosis, or be an affected adult. It is great to talk to someone who ‘gets it’ and doesn’t have to explain ichthyosis. The RSN provides a safe place for families to connect, whether through social media, by telephone, or face-to-face at a meeting. Often they have never met another person who shares the disorder. The feelings of isolation for new moms, parents of children with ichthyosis, or affected teens or adults with ichthyosis, can be overwhelming. This support network gives people the opportunity to talk to others who have experience living with ichthyosis and to share their feelings with others who understand. Your donations help improve the lives of those in the ichthyosis community.
FIRST encourages you to take advantage of the many opportunities and resources available through our foundation. And, we thank you wholeheartedly for helping us to provide them for you, each and every day.
More information on the Regional Support Network.
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