Compiled by Miriam Bernard

.

This year, we’re thrilled to introduce you to our NODCC board by sharing details directly from our board members, every other month. This month we are highlighting Tom Frey, friend of the NODCC since 2015. Tom hails from East Moriches, New York, and learned about the NODCC in 2015 after his daughter was diagnosed with a DCC. Tom’s wife searched the web for their daughter’s condition and found the NODCC, but the family had just missed the 2014 conference in Boston. They then set their sights on getting to the next conference in 2016 in Chicago. The Frey family has been to every major and regional conference since that year and have become more deeply connected with each subsequent conference!

Tom has always had a desire to give back to those who have helped he and his family, which is what led him toward a desire to serve on the NODCC board. His favorite element of being on the board thus far is learning all the behind-the-scenes details that keep the organization running. One of his passions is the NODCC outreach program; in fact, one of his personal goals is seeing the outreach program soar in the coming years.

When recalling cherished moments Tom shares, “I enjoy the camaraderie and getting to know everyone better when setting up for conferences.”  Tom wishes he could help everyone understand how in the NODCC, everyone grows very close and it’s easy to be accepted and be yourself. If you’re experiencing any trepidations about getting plugged in deeper to any NODCC committee or group, know that Tom and the whole board assure you: you won’t find a more accepting or friendly group anywhere.

When Tom isn’t busy being an NODCC board member, he is the proud owner of a contracting business on the east end of Long Island. He also enjoys spending time with his family and friends, and volunteering at his local fire department. We are grateful to Tom and his family for their many rich contributions to our organization!