In 1993 I was one of the founders of a small pharma company that was focused on the development and commercialization of therapies for rare diseases. The "rare disease world" was very different then; there were no vendors with experience to rely on, consultants to guide us, or guidelines to follow...I remember contacting Abbey and she gave me the best advice anyone ever could. She said "simply put yourself in the shoes of the patient and you'll never go wrong". 

Abbey and NORD gave those of us in industry a vehicle to talk to and learn from each other. The NORD staff helped by making connections to others who may have shared similar challenges.

It has been amazing having a "front row seat" to the innovation that has come to pass as the result of this global crusade. Thank you Abbey, and all of the amazing people who made this happen!