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About the Immune Deficiency Foundation
I want to welcome you to the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), the national non-profit patient organization for the primary immune deficiency diseases. In 1980, a small group of us got together and agreed there was an urgent need for a strong national patient organization dedicated to the primary immune deficiency diseases. Twenty five years later, thousands of families, patients and medical professionals have joined our efforts in improving the diagnosis and treatment of the primary immune deficiency diseases through research, education and advocacy. IDF created the first educational resources and programs for patients and families with these diseases, and has launched many educational programs for health care professionals. IDF has helped educate countless physicians on the recognition and diagnosis of these disorders, and has supported numerous training fellowships and research grants. We have developed a wonderful peer support network of volunteers, and continue to initiate educational programs throughout the country. IDF continues to listen to the needs of our community and develop programs to help solve the problems that are encountered. All of the programs that you will read about on this site have been created in reaction to problems faced by our community, which include the need for educational resources, health insurance and reimbursement questions, access to optimal care and therapies, and improving the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases. When my son was diagnosed with a primary immune deficiency disease in 1978, no organization existed and no materials were available for patients and families. Today, because many others have shared a common vision, we have been able to accomplish a great deal. However, the problems of diagnosis, treatment and access to care have not gone away, and much more needs to be done on behalf of our community. We encourage you to join our efforts by becoming involved in IDF, whether it be as a consumer, a volunteer, or a philanthropic donor. Welcome to IDF, and thank you for your interest. Sincerely,
Marcia Boyle Chairman and President
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