Pete Seeger: The Power of Song (trailer)

I highly recommend this film.

From the Archives: "Things I Learned and Discovered at the OI Foundation Conference" (8/8/2008)

I had an awesome time at the OI Foundation Conference this year! It was actually my first one... I thought I'd share what I took away from this conference.

Here are some of the things I learned:

* Most cases of OI (85-90%) are caused by a dominant genetic defect.

* While there are no concrete stats available, it is estimated there are 20-50,000 people living with OI in the US. The number of people with OI in Canada may be similar to US estimates.

* Exercise is crucial for people with OI. One good workout regimen is stretching.

* Bones can atrophy just like muscles if they are not used.

* Vitamin D is a hormone, not a vitamin.

* Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption and bone health.

* About 50% of people with OI also have dentinogenesis (i.e. brittle teeth). There are also some people who have DI but not OI.

* Pulmonary infection is the leading cause of death for people with OI. This is why ALL people with OI are told to exercise daily and get a flu shot annually.

* Canada needs its own OI Foundation. There used to be an active group, but it dissolved several years ago.

* China has its own OI Foundation, as does the former Soviet state of Georgia.

Here are some things I discovered at the conference:

* Many of us OIers are fun, friendly and talkative.

* Many of us OIers are positive, intelligent and forward-thinking.

* We possess an 'unbreakable spirit.'

* Over 800 people attended this year's conference (#16), the largest one ever!

* Many attendees came from the US and around the world.

And last, but not least...

* There are a lot of cute girls - and pretty ladies - with OI! ;)