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In honor of their daughter and inspired by Dr. Saira Sheikh’s expertise and compassionate care, Idit and Moti Feeder support complex immunologic diseases through a generous gift. 


Dr. Saira Sheikh shown in a simulated teaching patient encounter, with her research team members.

Idit and Moti Ferder of California, travel the world with an incredible sense of purpose. They are inspirational individuals; masters of their craft and leaders in their field, creating remarkable human experiences through the company that they founded, positioning philanthropy at the heart of their business. Above all, Idit and Moti are loving and devoted parents, with an unparalleled commitment to the health and well-being of their children.

With a strong history of autoimmune diseases in the family, the Ferders became alarmed when their daughter started to become very ill with unexplained symptoms. Despite consultation with numerous health care professionals, her condition continued to deteriorate. It was the unwavering pursuit of answers that led them, across the miles, to Dr. Saira Sheikh at UNC.

Saira Sheikh, MD, is the Linda Coley Sewell Distinguished Professor of Medicine in the Division of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill’s School of Medicine. She is trained and triple board certified in internal medicine, rheumatology and allergy/immunology. Dr. Sheikh is the Director of the UNC Rheumatology Lupus Clinic and Director of the Clinical Trials Program at the UNC Thurston Arthritis Research Center. She is a nationally recognized and accomplished physician, researcher and educator, and patients travel from around the country to seek her expertise in clinic.

Dr. Sheikh’s research focuses on answering scientific questions that directly impact the care of patients with complex immunologic diseases, primarily Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.  Her work applies an integrated approach of research, teaching, and clinical practice to advance team science through clinical trials, translational research collaborations, and community engagement, with the patient experience centered at the core of all that she does.

Idit and Moti were instantly moved by Dr. Sheikh’s genuine empathy, kindness, and sincere dedication to her patients. “We think the world of Saira,” proclaims Idit. “She is an exceptional human being and skilled physician who puts her patients first and cares for them with true compassion.” The Ferders felt immense gratitude for their daughter’s experience. “Saira took her time to listen to our daughter’s concerns and carefully advocated for her wellness,” Idit recalls, as she reflects on Dr. Sheikh’s incredible kindness and dedication to her patients and their families.

The Ferder’s daughter graciously shared her sentiments, “Dr. Sheikh is exceptionally kind and empathetic. She has not only gone above and beyond to coordinate my care, but she has also provided tireless emotional support at every turn. She is a wonderful physician and an extraordinary caregiver. I am immensely grateful for her support.”

As a token of their appreciation for Dr. Saira Sheikh and in honor of their daughter’s care, Idit and Moti were inspired to make a meaningful gift to advance Dr. Sheikh’s work in autoimmune disease. Idit and Moti’s personal and professional philosophy is that ‘philanthropy is a powerful tool for positive change’.

Dr. Sheikh was deeply touched by this thoughtful and impactful gesture, “I have tremendous gratitude for Idit & Moti and the Ferder family. Their support of my work and research team enables us to work towards advancing science and to promote health and healing for so many others. I am truly grateful beyond words,” said Sheikh, adding, “Each day, I am inspired by the courage and resilience of my patients and their families.”

To support Dr. Saira Sheikh’s research at UNC, contact Kathryn Hunter or click here to support “The Fund for Excellence in Lupus and Sjogren’s.”