EA/TEF Child and Family Support Connection, Inc.

The EA/TEF (Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula) Child and Family Support Connection is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational resources as well as emotional and practical support to aid in the daily care of children affected by esophageal atresia or tracheoesophageal fistula. Esophageal atresia (EA) is a congenital birth defect characterized by lack of continuity of the esophagus (which is normally a single passage extending from the throat to the stomach). Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a birth defect characterized by the presence of an abnormal passage between the esophagus and the windpipe. It was in 1992, when eight families in the Chicago area joined forces to create a support network of parents of children born with EA/TEF. Their shared experiences were made easier with the support of others who faced similar situations and had similar questions. The network of information and support that they created was the seed for the EA/TEF Child and Family Support Connection. The organization, which currently consists of 1,200 members and 10 chapters, has become a national clearinghouse for information on these birth defects. EA/TEF provides a variety of materials through its Family Orientation Packet, a Lending Library of books and videos, educational brochures and flyers, and a regular newsletter. The organization has a national database that provides important information to parents as well as healthcare professionals.