National Support Resources
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a trusted, national resource dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by rare diseases. NORD provides advocacy, education, and direct services that help patients access accurate information, meaningful community support, and specialized medical care. Ward’s Foundation is proud to be recognized as a NORD Platinum Member Organization, reflecting our commitment to high standards of support, collaboration, and rare disease advocacy.
On the NORD website, you can access:
- Rare Disease Database: Clear, reliable information on hundreds of rare conditions.
- Patient & Family Assistance Programs: Help with medication costs, insurance premiums, travel, and urgent expenses.
- Insurance & Care Navigation Support: Tools and guidance for understanding insurance options, coverage challenges, and appeals.
- Centers of Excellence Directory: A nationwide network of clinical sites with expertise in rare diseases.
- Educational Resources & Webinars: Up-to-date learning tools for families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
- Advocacy Opportunities: Ways to engage in policy and awareness efforts that strengthen the rare disease community.
- Transition & Future Planning Resources: Support for adolescents moving into adult care and long-term planning for families.
SupportNow is the first true and only family support platform. SupportNow combines fundraising, meals, volunteers (help around the house, childcare, etc.) and updates all together in one customizable website. SupportNow has also created the world’s largest sortable database of medical grants (free as well). Additionally, SupportNow has a dedicated Fundraising expert, Abby Zachritz (Advocate Abby) who focuses on directing her time to helping families find funding with their desired products/services, etc.