Building a “Lifesaving Partnership”

The National Marfan Foundation is the official charity of Tall Clubs International (TCI), a worldwide social club for people who are tall.  TCI grew from the first Tall Club created in 1938 by Kae Sumner Einfeldt, who was affected with Marfan syndrome.  She died in 1996 at the age of 85.  Today, there are more than 65 affiliated clubs and more than 4,000 members throughout the United States and Canada.  There are also Tall Club Chapters in Europe.  TCI has influenced many changes in the way that society recognizes the special needs of tall people and has helped the self esteem of countless members.

The NMF is indebted to Kae, who was the inspiration for TCI to adopt the NMF as their official charity in 1989.  Since that time, the Tall Clubs have raised over $200,000 to support programs in early detection, public awareness, and research, effectively saving the lives of countless individuals.  We are most grateful to TCI for all they do to support our “lifesaving partnership”, and for the entertainment they create through their variety of events, including carnivals, dances, walk-a-thons, fashion shows, raffles, and media initiatives – all organized with spirit, creativity and a fun-loving attitude.

Combining our common attribute of being tall and its related social and health concerns, along with our powerful history of relationship, we have a solid foundation for continuing to strengthen our collaboration through efforts that will be mutually beneficial.   In 1999, for the first time, the TCI national convention and the NMF annual conference coincided, offering members of both organizations an opportunity to participate in events.  We hope to plan a joint conference again in the near future.  The NMF encourages its Chapters, Network Groups and individual members to invite their local TCI club to NMF events in their area.  Become a TCI member and get involved in their activities – both for fun, camaraderie and to show our gratefulness and support for all they do on our behalf.

For more information about the Tall Clubs, call 888-I-M-TALL-2 (888-468-2552) or visit the Tall Clubs International web site at: www.tall.org.