Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a genetic bone disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily. An individual is born with OI and affected throughout his or her life. Compared to healthy bone, the bones of a child or adult with OI are like chalk. Someone with mild OI may experience a few fractures while those with the severe forms may have hundreds in a lifetime. Each broken bone hurts as much as the first!  The mission of the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation is to improve the quality of life for people affected by OI through research to find treatments and a cure, education, awareness, and mutual support. Each year, the Foundation serves thousands of people and provides almost $1 million in funding to deserving programs and scientists.