Every two seconds, someone in the United States requires blood. This essential resource is critical for surgeries, cancer treatments, managing chronic conditions, and encephalitis, including Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS). Whether a patient needs whole blood, red blood cells, platelets, or plasma, this lifesaving support begins with the generous contributions of individual donors like you!

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐒/𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐒?
PANS and PANDAS are autoimmune disorders that arise when the body’s immune response to infections mistakenly attacks the brain. This can lead to sudden and severe symptoms, such as obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and motor or vocal tics, among many other distressing symptoms. These conditions can profoundly affect a child’s daily life as well as the well-being of their families.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗚 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁
Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) is an important treatment option for moderate to severe cases of PANS/PANDAS. It provides crucial immune support by supplying a blend of antibodies derived from the plasma of thousands of healthy donors. These antibodies help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, alleviating the neurological symptoms linked to these disorders.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘀𝗺𝗮 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
The success of IVIG treatment heavily depends on the availability of blood and plasma donations. Each treatment requires plasma from multiple donors, emphasizing the urgent need for ongoing and generous contributions. By donating plasma, individuals play a vital role in ensuring a steady supply of immunoglobulins that can significantly improve the lives of those affected by PANS/PANDAS.

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
This holiday season, think about making a difference by donating blood or plasma to support individuals impacted by PANS/PANDAS and other patients in need. Your donation is a gift that not only brings hope but can also save lives! Donation period: November 28, 2024 – January 1, 2025.