4th Annual Pump It Up For Platelets!
Detroit, MI

On Saturday, October 5, 65 participants including 6 ITP warriors, 1 angel warrior, and 1 dog with ITP, gathered outside Detroit, MI for the 4th Annual Pump It Up For Platelets! event. This event raised over $8,000 for PDSA programs and research.

Photo Gallery

TRACEY'S ITP JOURNEY

It’s been 8.5 yrs since my life changed with 2 late night phone calls, on consecutive nights) First, by my internist, who referred me to a hematologist the next day. My internist was pretty sure I had ITP. The next night I was told to get to the hospital ASAP where I spent 2 nights trying to raise my platelets to a safe level. Little did I know that this journey would take such an emotional, mental, physical, and financial toll on me. I thought they’d find a treatment and it would be “resolved.”

Treatments during this time have included very high doses of Prednisone, followed by Rituxin infusions, a splenectomy, Promacta, weekly N-plate shots, and finally Tavalisse, which I’ve been on for almost 6 years. All these drugs have come with side effects and alarmingly high costs.

About 6 years ago I discovered the PDSA which I’m incredibly grateful for. I’ve learned how to educate myself and become an advocate in my ITP journey and have connected with other people who have ITP. Through the PDSA, I’ve been inspired to help others navigate their ITP journeys.

I’m blessed to have such a great support team-my family, friends, and doctors. My faith has helped me weather some very difficult moments, and feel mentally strong with the help of a therapist. Meditation and Reiki have also helped to reduce my stress. I’m here to live in a BIG way, embracing life and being grateful.

I’m walking in memory of Lisa Bauer Lewandowski , who fought a very courageous battle with ITP, before passing away in 2021 due to complications. She often cheered me on when I was frustrated with my struggles. She was truly a bright light for those around her.

Thank you all for your continued support, prayers, and positive vibes!




SAANVI'S ITP JOURNEY

Saanvi, Nandini, Shailen and I (Neelam) invite you to donate to Saanvi’s team to raise funds for the Platelet Disorder Support Association (PDSA).

Please support Saanvi, our family, and the many others who we have met on our journey by donating to support Saanvi's ITP Fundraising Team - SPEAK NOW FOR ITP!!

Your participation and donation will help support patients with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), like Saanvi and raise awareness about this rare autoimmune disorder. Your generosity will help us meet our fundraising goal!

There are many roles that Saanvi pours her heart into as a bright, loyal and loving 10-year-old. This fundraiser celebrates and supports her role as an ITP WARRIOR!! Saanvi encapsulates the true meaning of an ITP WARRIOR through her determination, bravery and ferocity. She is committed to being her best self regardless of challenges that she may face. With the support of PDSA, she found comfort and community when she met other kids who had similar experiences.

Watching her learn, overcome challenges, and grow her understanding of life is truly inspiring. I always love to hear her new philosophies! This past year at the PDSA conference, she chose to attend sessions and share her story.

In coping with her medical circumstances, PDSA has been a pillar in helping Saanvi and all of us through her ITP journey.

The staff at PDSA works tirelessly to support patients AND push research to better understand ITP AND expand treatment options. PDSA brings together ITP patients and leading doctors from across the world who work together to learn more ITP and how patients like Saanvi can improve their lives through knowledge and more treatment options.

Please donate to Saanvi's team! Thank you for your support!