Our Foundation’s Journey
The National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders was founded in August 2006 as a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of dysphagia. The Foundation emerged from the determination of individuals inspired by the challenges faced by dysphagia patients, including founding members Dr. Peter Belafsky, a leading otolaryngologist, and Jan Pryor, a speech pathologist and dysphagia consultant. Together with dysphagia patient Sonia Blue, they envisioned a comprehensive resource for dysphagia education and patient support.
Mike Donovan joined the team as treasurer and fundraiser, establishing a strong financial foundation that allowed the organization to flourish. We fondly remember Mike, who bravely battled head and neck cancer for 23 years until his passing in April 2018 (see In Memoriam below).
In August 2012, the Foundation Board of Directors unanimously elected Ed Steger as the new President. Ed graciously accepted this role on September 1, 2012, and has continued to lead the organization towards its mission of support and advancement in dysphagia care.