Seeing my rare disease highlighted on TV brings validation and hope
Outside of doctor appointments, I never hear people talking about ITP
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Living with a rare disease often means feeling unseen and alone, even when surrounded by supportive family, friends, and a medical team. While they certainly care, people can’t truly experience the daily reality of our illnesses. That’s why, when I heard one of my rare diseases featured on a mainstream television show, my ears perked up.
The Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critics’ Choice award-winning show “The Pitt” recently featured immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in an episode. ITP is a rare autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s blood platelets. Low platelet counts can lead to excessive bruising, frequent nosebleeds, fatigue, and dangerous bleeding during menstrual cycles or injuries. I was diagnosed with ITP in 2018 after experiencing severe fatigue and unexplained bruising.
“The Pitt” is a fast-paced medical drama centered on emergency care. In season 2, episode 3, a young girl arrives at the ER after falling down the stairs while playing at home. She had cut her chin and chipped a tooth — injuries that might not seem unusual on their own. However, she also had multiple bruises in various stages of healing and appeared tired and withdrawn, unlike most energetic kids her age.
Some of the medical staff immediately suspected abuse. Sadly, this is a common scenario for families of children with rare or undiagnosed illnesses — people can be quick to assume abuse when symptoms are misunderstood. As a parent, you’re already stressed and worried while coping with a child’s illness, only to potentially face questioning by social services. I can’t imagine bearing that additional burden on top of everything else.
In the show, after the medical staff nearly accused the father of abuse, the ER erupted in chaos, with yelling, tension, and arguments filling the room. Then, one of the care providers arrived with the girl’s blood work results, announcing: “Her platelets are at 39,000.” The room fell silent as the medical team realized what it meant. Normal platelet levels range from 150,000 to 450,000, so such a low count would explain her widespread bruising and fatigue.
“It’s probably ITP,” the care provider said.
Hearing those words spoken aloud on an award-winning TV show was unexpectedly exciting. Outside of doctor appointments, no one ever talks about my disease. Most people have little understanding of what patients and their caregivers go through every day.
I’m grateful the show took the time to feature ITP and highlight the real challenges associated with it. ITP is what I consider an “invisible illness”: On the outside, we may look fine unless we’re covered in bruises. Even then, many things can cause bruising, so most people wouldn’t suspect a rare autoimmune disorder.
As medical shows remain popular, I hope they continue to spotlight rare and chronic illnesses. Recognition and representation are invaluable for educating the public about what so many people with rare diseases face every day.
Note: Bleeding Disorders News is strictly a news and information website about the syndrome. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Bleeding Disorders News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to bleeding disorders.
