PLAINSBORO, N.J., Sept. 7, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Integra Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Integra LifeSciences Corporation, has awarded a $10,500 grant to the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Inc., in support of the Society's 18th World Burn Congress in Sacramento, California, September 6-9, 2006.
"The Integra Foundation is delighted to be able to continue to support such a worthwhile endeavor for the burn community," said Gianna Sabella, Executive Director of the Integra Foundation.
The Phoenix Society was founded by Alan Breslau, who was extensively burned in the crash of a commercial airliner in 1963. Following a visit to a child at a local burn center, Alan realized the importance of peer support for those with burn injuries and went on to establish one of the first burn support organizations in the United States. The Phoenix Society takes its name from the legendary bird that lives 500 years and is consumed by flame, but rises again, reborn from its ashes, more brilliant than before. The Phoenix Society's goal is to assure that all burn survivors have access to the support systems necessary for their recovery. The Society encourages and supports activities that bring survivors together to learn and grow from their common experiences, provides emotional support and shares coping strategies with those affected by burn injuries and those who care for them. The Phoenix Society acts as an advocate for quality burn care and burn prevention at the National level.
"The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is very fortunate to have the Integra Foundation sponsor the World Burn Congress for a third year," said Amy Acton, Executive Director of the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, Inc. "With their support, World Burn Congress is creating a safe environment that empowers hundreds of burn survivors and their families to thrive after a devastating burn injury."
The Integra Foundation is dedicated to advancing innovative medical and healthcare research and education, primarily in the areas of neurosurgery, reconstructive and general surgery, that lead to improved outcome and quality of life for patients and their communities. It is funded by Integra LifeSciences Corporation, a leader in developing and marketing high quality surgical instruments, as well as innovative devices and bio-products, for use in neurosurgery, reconstructive and general surgery and soft tissue repair.