President & Founder of the Immune Deficiency Foundation, Marcia Boyle, Named Inaugural Recipient of Patient Services, Inc.'s President Award

TOWSON, Md., May 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Marcia Boyle, President & Founder of the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) was awarded the inaugural President's Award from the Patient Services, Inc. (PSI).  Marcia was recognized by PSI for her leadership in the patient advocacy community.

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA), a dedicated advocate for the patient community, presented the award to Boyle at a reception in Washington DC on Wednesday, April 24, 2013.

PSI's President Award recognizes a leader in the patient advocacy community who embodies the strength, wisdom, and vision of PSI's Founder and President, Dana A. Kuhn, PhD. Boyle exemplifies these qualities and has consistently devoted her time, energy, and passion to the service of patients in the rare disease community, specifically those living with primary immunodeficiency diseases.

Boyle founded IDF in 1980 when her son was diagnosed with X-Linked Agammaglobulinemia, a primary immunodeficiency disease.  She organized a small group of families and physicians that agreed there was an urgent need for a strong national patient organization dedicated to individuals affected by these diseases.

Through Boyle's leadership, this network has since grown exponentially into an internationally recognized organization that provides vital services and resources to patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases, their families and healthcare providers treating the diseases. 

"I am honored to be the inaugural recipient of such a meaningful award," explains Boyle, "It is of the utmost importance to continue to bring a voice to the rare disease community."

PSI's President Award will be bestowed annually, and the honoree will be held up as an example for future generations to emulate.

About Immune Deficiency Foundation
The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), founded in 1980, is the national patient organization dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of persons with primary immunodeficiency diseases through advocacy, education and research.  To learn more about IDF programs, services and educational materials, visit our website at www.primaryimmune.org

About Patient Services, Inc.
Patient Services, Inc. (PSI) is an independent, national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that assists patients with expensive chronic illnesses and conditions access their treatments and therapies.  PSI raises private donations and utilizes those resources to subsidize health insurance premiums; pharmacy and treatment co-payments, and expenses associated with Medicare Part D.  PSI currently assists over 15,000 patients across the country in over 25 different disease states.

SOURCE Immune Deficiency Foundation