Bicuspid Aortic Foundation - Chairman's Message

As I write this, it is Thanksgiving morning in California. Across the United States today this holiday is observed in various ways with family and friends. Today, I am picturing the many who have contacted us. In remembering the emails and phone calls shared through this Foundation, I am thankful for the privilege of reaching out to all who need us.

In reading the history of this holiday, I found the Proclamation of President Abraham Lincoln, who declared Thanksgiving an official national holiday during the midst of the Civil War in 1863. I was struck by his words highlighting so many hopeful aspects of our country, although torn at that time by such conflict. President Lincoln wrote "…and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom." But he also mentions "…all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged….".

I found these thoughts very fitting today, as I think of the mission of the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. We have every reason to be hopeful as we look to the future, but we also are aware that aortic disease in the chest continues to result in "widows, .... mourners, or sufferers". We are in a very real conflict with a formidable adversary.

Today as families and friends gather, many of us are joyful because of state-of-the-art surgical and medical advancements in the treatment of aortic disease in the chest. The reality is present with us, either in ourselves or our loved ones. We know that the life we treasure continues because skilled and caring physicians have not faltered in their commitment to save lives from thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD). We can never adequately thank these brave pioneers. My husband would not be with me today without them.

But today there are loved ones missing from circles of family and friends. TAAD has taken them from us, often in the prime of life. Through emails and phone calls, you have shared what has happened to your loved one. And you are so concerned about others in your family who may be vulnerable to TAAD. I am thinking especially of these families today….those I have met, and those I do not know…. Today I remember you, and I grieve for such tragic loss.

The reason for the existence of the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, expressed in its mission statement, is defined by the experience of individuals and families with aortic disease in the chest. The Foundation exists because there is a great need for information and advocacy for those affected by Bicuspid Aortic Disease and other forms of TAAD.

The Foundation has achieved many of its initial goals, including the launch of its web site and obtaining tax-exempt charitable status. As we look to the future together, the Foundation welcomes your support in pursuing its goals. Contributions in any amount can mean so much in saving lives from TAAD. Please visit our Donation page for details about how you can help.

May you find hope and joy in all that surrounds you this Thanksgiving Day, and throughout the remainder of 2005.

With all best wishes,

Arlys Velebir

Chair, Board of Directors
Bicuspid Aortic Foundation