Hello! We, Sacha and Sarah, have teamed up to take on the Grand Canyon in 2025, supporting FIRST - the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types. By joining forces as an adult affected with ichthyosis and the parent of a child with ichthyosis, we hope to model and strengthen support within the ichthyosis community. Thank you!

Sacha Schenker's Story

Despite this being the most challenging hike of my life ( 8 weeks of training required), I decided to join this fundraising event to raise awareness for Ichthyosis, and to support the community!

As a newborn, no one knew what was wrong with my skin, I was an anomaly for many doctors and dermatologists. Eventually, a dermatologist was able to diagnose me and prescribe the necessary creams and lotions. Everyone with ichthyosis is different and needs a different approach to living with this skin disorder. Many people with skin disorders experience stares, bullying, and unsolicited advice from others on how to manage their conditions. Educating people about this genetic skin disorder will hopefully lead to an increase in compassion and support. Knowledge is power.

Throughout my life, I am very grateful for all the support I received, along with all the tools that helped me improve my skin. As part of my commitment to the community, I offer online yoga classes as support for mental health.
Taking part in this fundraiser is another way I can help. 

Thanks in advance for helping me reach my fundraising goal! 

Sarah Aughenbaugh's Story 

FIRST has supported my family with invaluable resources and relationships. I want to make sure this legacy of care and community continues. My youngest daughter, Vic, is affected with lamellar ichthyosis - a recessive genetic skin condition that affects about 1 in 200,000 individuals in the US. Since her birth, we've been immersed in a world that we never knew existed. With such a rare diagnosis, we are so fortunate to have tapped into the support of FIRST, connecting us to the broader community of people who are also affected by ichthyosis. Through FIRST, we are surrounded by role models for our children and for us as parents, learning from and following in the footsteps of those who have come before us. Thanks for your support, as I strive to support FIRST and pay it forward for future generations.