What
is PiA?
The
Primary Immunodeficiency Association, (PiA), is a national
registered charity, number 1107233, and is the only patient
support charity in the UK dedicated to supporting over 5,000
people born with chronic immune disorders, and their families.
Those
born with these rare and debilitating illnesses have missing
or defective genes, leaving them with little or no natural
defence against infections. As a result if they are untreated
they can develop more serious life limiting and life threatening
conditions.
The
World Health Organisation recognises over 100 primary immunodeficiencies
and it is estimated that 1.5 million people in Europe are
affected, with thousands more going undiagnosed.
As
the support organisation for these patients PiA provides patient
support and advice, including an online discussion forum,
Patient Helpline and information and advice on social and
welfare benefits. We also encourage the participation and
involvement of our members with nationwide patient days, and
we give our younger members the opportunity to take part in
adventure holidays.
PiA
funded research has helped develop ground breaking gene therapy
treatment that has saved children’s lives. We work closely
with the Institute of Child Health , Great Ormond Street Children’s
Hospital, Newcastle General Hospital and other major centres
of excellence for the treatment of people with primary immunodeficiencies
in the UK .
PiA
is involved in lobbying government for better resources and
specialist services for PID patients and we are researching
technology for GP surgeries that will raise awareness of primary
immunodeficiencies and improve diagnosis.
The
work of our fundraisers is invaluable. The sponsorship that
you raise will help us in our challenge to improve the quality
of life of everyone with a primary immunodeficiency, through
advice, information and funding of original research – leading
to improved treatments and perhaps, one day, a cure.
Join
‘Team PiA’ and make a difference for a very good cause.
With
no government funding, we rely on the support and generosity
of our members and our medical, pharmaceutical and corporate
supporters.
Thank
you! |
