One teen remarked, "It was really special to be a part of this filming. I know that what I said will affect a younger person with ichthyosis. I am glad to be able to help someone else who is dealing with our disease."

Eleven teenagers and their families traveled to North Wales, PA, on a rainy weekend in April to be filmed for the Foundation's newest project, a DVD that addresses issues facing teenagers affected with ichthyosis. Thanks to a special grant funded by Operation Good Neighbor, the Foundation will be producing one thousand DVDs, which will be available this summer.

After consulting with the production company, ASAP Productions, Maureen Tierney's home was chosen as the location for filming. Maureen, the Foundation's Program Director, is also the mother of two teenagers and her house provided the perfect combination for the filming. Her home is equipped with plenty of entertainment for the teens and her decorating style provided various backdrops for each interview. The Foundation is grateful to Maureen and her family for opening their home for the filming.

Each teen was interviewed on camera for approximately 45 minutes. Armed with a list of questions that were specifically chosen for each teen, Justin Tormey, the producer/director, sat across from each teen and settled into a conversation. The cameras, microphones, and lighting were strategically placed to get the best angles and shots of each teen as they answered questions and chatted. Once the nervousness of being a "star for a day" wore off, each teen spoke candidly about their ichthyosis and being a teen. Many issues were addressed including relationships with peers, making new friends, college plans, skin care routines, school and extracurricular activities, and dealing with the public.

Half of our teen participants were local, while the other half traveled from other states. Some families traveled from as far as Nebraska, Tennessee, and Alabama. A grant provided by LaRoche-Posay, makers of Lipikar Baum, covered the costs of hotel accommodations and food during the weekend. In all, it was a great experience for everyone. One teen remarked, "It was really special to be a part of this filming. I know that what I said will affect a younger person with ichthyosis. I am glad to be able to help someone else who is dealing with our disease."