Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIg) is a blood product from a large pool of donors. IVIG is used to treat moderate to severe cases of PANDAS/PANS.
PANDAS/PANS are inflammatory brain disorders causing abrupt and extreme behavioral changes, including severe and debilitating OCD and/or eating restriction in children and young adults. Very often, the illness starts after an ordinary infection, such as strep throat. Antibodies made to fight the infection mistakenly attack brain tissues, causing neurological and behavioral symptoms. Affected children also have an extreme and abrupt onset of anxiety, rage, depression, insomnia, behavioral regression, deterioration in school performance, tics, and other debilitating symptoms. Prompt medical treatment is essential and can lead to remission. In moderate to severe cases, Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) significantly decreases symptom severity and shortens the course of illness in PANS/PANDAS. IVIG is a blood product made up of antibodies that can be given intravenously (through a vein). Antibodies are proteins that your body makes to help fight infections. Help CalCoalition for PANS/PANDAS Advocacy & The American Red Cross by donating blood this holiday season, Now through Jan. 1, 2024.
WHAT:
Season of Giving Virtual Blood Drive
Donations by appointment only
WHO:
California Coalition for PANS/PANDAS Advocacy
WHEN:
November 1, 2023 – January 1, 2024
WHERE:
Virtual Blood Drive – Sign up online and choose your location.
DETAILS:
Blood donation by appointment only – sign-up here:
Challenge your friends (or anyone for that matter) to a friendly competition! Who will win the battle to do the most social good for your community?
Put your virtual blood drive campaign against one or even multiple other campaigns to see who can recruit more blood donors for the American Red Cross.
