ITP Awareness Month shines spotlight on patients, support, and research
PDSA plans events and campaigns throughout September to raise awareness
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September is National ITP Awareness Month in the U.S., a time when advocates work to raise awareness and support research into immune thrombocytopenia (ITP).
The Platelet Disorder Support Association (PDSA), which helped formalize the designation of this national awareness month in 2010, is hosting a range of activities and campaigns to promote ITP awareness.
“Each September, we concentrate our efforts to spotlight the ITP patient experience, increase public awareness of ITP, and ensure patients and caregivers have access to our growing network of resources and support,” the PDSA said on its website.
ITP community comes together throughout September
“This year’s ITP Awareness Month will focus on raising awareness within our local communities and celebrating the accomplishments we have made within the ITP community,” the association added. “All month long, we invite you to join us in honoring the network of patients, caregivers, physicians, and industry partners working together to improve outcomes for those living with ITP.”
ITP is an autoimmune disorder marked by the destruction of platelets, which are cell fragments that normally help blood to clot. Low platelet levels can lead to symptoms such as unusual bleeding or bruising.
The PDSA, a nonprofit group focused on supporting people with ITP and other platelet-related disorders, is encouraging donations and fundraising throughout September, and items in its online store are 20% off for the entire month. PDSA’s Pump It Up For Platelets! run/walk fundraising events are being held in person at sites across the U.S. and Ontario, as well as virtually. The association is also encouraging the ITP community to spread the word on social media. The PDSA has created a social media toolkit to help advocates make their voices heard.
The whole month of September is designated for ITP awareness in the U.S., but the week from Sept. 21 to 27 is Global ITP Awareness Week, when advocates around the world will be joining together. On that Friday, Sept. 25, the community is encouraged to wear purple to raise awareness as part of Sport Purple for Platelets Day.
“The perfect fusion of the calm stability of blue with the fierce energy of red, purple is said to have the power to uplift, calm nerves and encourage peace. Purple is also known to represent bravery and in immune thrombocytopenia, it signifies one of the most distinctive symptoms of ITP – the spontaneous bruise,” the PDSA stated.
“Sport Purple for Platelets Day is the perfect day to inform others about ITP – what it is, how it affects you, and how they can help you raise awareness. Ask your family, friends, colleagues, and classmates to join you, and consider holding an event in your office or at your school to help others better understand this rare disease,” the association added.
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