A letter from Jean Pickford, CEO

You, our members are at the heart of FIRST and what inspires me to embrace everything I do with compassion and determination.  Looking back at this year, if 2016 showed us anything, it's that FIRST is poised, energized, and determined to continue to offer the most beneficial programs and services, in the most effected way possible...for you.

So what's new? With the continual challenge of a shifting and broadening terrain of healthcare technology and communications, FIRST must answer the challenge and invite members directly into our conversation to answer a singular question:  How can we help to better serve you? In this issue, you'll discover a sampling of our new integrated approach to our programs like the FIRST-hosted Live WebEx Series with ichthyosis medical experts and product developers; a patient-driven upgrade to our Life Series modules - a library addressing the care and consideratino for various stages of living with ichthyosis (new parents, teens, seniors); a new product sampling program and an international Ichthyosis Awareness Month (IAM) collaboration with our partners around the globe, for the very first time.

We pride ourselves in staying forward-thinking to assure that FIRST remains relevant and impactful.  If you are interested in joining the conversation, please participate in one of our upcoming calls, events, or social media groups.  Perhaps you are compelled to support or plan a fundraiser?  There are plenty of ways to join our special family.  Reach out and let me know what's on your mind, what do you need, and how can we help?