Making a Difference Together Sharing Our Time, Talents, and Resources Creating a Climate of Hope A little over a decade ago, surgical treatment of aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest was still very high risk and the outlook was grim. Surgery was viewed as a last resort and delayed as long as possible. Many people's aorta dissected or ruptured while they were waiting for surgery. Surgery for aneurysm of the ascending aorta is an example. Not so long ago, patients were asked to wait for surgery until their ascending aortic aneurysm reached 6 cm in diameter. However, half of these people would never have a chance to choose their surgery date. Their aorta dissected or ruptured before it reached 6 cm. Today, we are indebted to those who, with great courage, perseverance, and skill, have pioneered tremendous advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD). The risk of surgery in expert hands has been significantly lowered, and in these expert hands surgery can now be safely offered at smaller sizes, before dissection or rupture occurs. Pioneers in Search of a Better Tomorrow However, we are still pioneers. Too many times, the answer to important questions is "We don't know". Too many times, accurate information and state-of-the-art expertise are not accessible to those who need them. There is a great deal more to be done. Together, patients, families, and physicians are entrusted with moving beyond what is possible today toward an even better tomorrow. There is a need for the time, talents, and financial support of us all. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation is a non-profit organization that has been granted tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service under section 501(c)(3), and donations in support of the Foundation's mission will typically qualify for tax exemption. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation's tax identification number is 20-2849388. All members of the Board of Directors and Medical Advisory Board are volunteers, and the Foundation's resources are directed toward accomplishing its mission. Financial Donations by Mail Checks made payable to "Bicuspid Aortic Foundation" may be sent to the following address: Bicuspid Aortic Foundation 30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 If you have a particular area of interest, such as education or research, that you would like to support, or any questions at all regarding donating to the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, please contact us as listed below for additional information. There are many ways that your involvement may further the goals of the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. The Foundation has identified several important focus areas in support of its mission. If you are interested in helping, please contact us as listed below. Contact Us Bicuspid Aortic Foundation 30100 Town Center Drive, Suite O-299 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Telephone Toll free in the US (888) 310-HOPE (4673) or (949) 495-0027 Fax: (949) 606-0413 Email: contactus@bicuspidfoundation.com Copyright © 2004 - 2005, Bicuspid Aortic Foundation. All Rights Reserved. The information on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website is provided for general informational purposes only. This information is not professional, legal, or medical advice. Any medications, products, or treatment mentioned are presented as information only and do not constitute any recommendation, approval, or endorsement. Any information is general in nature and is not a substitute for medical care. You should contact a physician or other qualified medical professional for advice about all health-related conditions. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation, including its officers, directors, volunteers and any others acting on its behalf, individually and collectively, make no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the contents of this website, including its accuracy, completeness, or reliability. Any links or references to other websites provided on the Bicuspid Aortic Foundation website are made available as a convenience only. The Bicuspid Aortic Foundation has not reviewed all of the websites linked to this website and is not responsible for the content of these sites or your use of them. |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease |
All aortic aneurysm and dissection in the chest |
For families and medical professionals, by families and medical professionals |

Creating a climate of hope, an atmosphere of caring, and a source of information for
all who are touched by thoracic aortic disease and the medical professionals
who care for them. |
Creating a climate of hope |
BICUSPID AORTIC FOUNDATION |
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm & Dissection |

Jan Van Noord (left) ran the 2005 LA Marathon to support his friend Richard Houchin (right) and to bring attention to BAVD and TAAD. |

There are many ways to help..... |
September 22, 23, and 24, 2005, the Grieshop family held a community Garage Sale
in memory of Doug, who lost his life to ascending aortic rupture due to BAVD. Pictured here are Stacey, holding Olivia, and Grant. |