How a 70th Birthday Party Helped NCF

Birthdays -- the one day each year some people look forward to and others would like to forget. The usual festivities involve blowing out candles, eating a lot of cake and opening gifts. Then, there are unique celebrations like Ron Reiss' surprise 70th birthday party. The candles were blown out and the cake is gone, but his family and friends continue giving gifts -- not to Ron, but to NephCure.

Since Ron's birthday last summer, 22 donations have come to NephCure in his honor, some as recently as December.

One of Ron's five grandchildren, Lauren, suffers with Nephrotic Syndrome. When she was two years old, her parents noticed swelling around her eyes, so they took her to the doctor. The doctor recommended they consult a nephrologist, who eventually confirmed her condition.

To mark Ron's special 70th occasion, his wife encouraged family members and friends to contribute to NephCure in lieu of gifts. She knew Ron would appreciate it more than any gift he would have received.

" The party was unbelievable; I never knew what was happening," said Ron. "I opened a card from my nephew and it said he donated to the Foundation; I thought it was great."
Described by Ron as "cute as a button," five-year-old Lauren remains very aware of her condition. When Lauren and her family eat at restaurants, she immediately informs the waitress of her restricted diet, and, even after ordering, asks the waitress what's in her food.

" She's got a great personality," said the proud grandfather. "She takes her pills like a real trooper. If it weren't for her personality, she'd be in bad shape. She's just a real delight."
Like many others, Ron admits he knew nothing about Nephrotic Syndrome before Lauren's diagnosis. In addition to other materials, NephCure's web site helped educate him and his family about this serious condition.

" I didn't know what it was; I never heard of it before," said Ron. "It's very frustrating that more isn't known. It's very tough for me. I see the agony my son and daughter-in-law go through and it's heartbreaking. The tears come to my eyes."

What's the best advice Ron would give to other grandparents and families affected by Nephrotic Syndrome?

" Without question, give money to NephCure. We have to learn more about it [Nephrotic Syndrome]," said Ron. "We're constantly telling friends to contribute to the Foundation instead of giving gifts.

" Visit the [NephCure] web site, learn and get to know other people dealing with this disease. You can't handle it by yourself. You need a support group to help you through the situation."

Ron says he very much enjoyed his 70th birthday and loves his grandchildren very much, but would enjoy his birthdays even more by seeing all his grandchildren smiling and healthy.