Chances are if you have a primary immunodeficiency disorder, you don’t live near other teens with your same diagnosis. No one else gets what you’re going through. You may have great, supportive friends to talk to, but that doesn’t mean they understand.
The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) hosts a Teen Escape every year to help you connect with others who get it.
Anyone ages 12-18 is invited to attend with a parent or guardian. While your parents attend informational and educational sessions, you’ll be having the time of your life participating in fun activities like a night at Dave & Busters! Additionally, you’ll be able to talk to other people your age about your experiences with PI and how you cope. You’ll also have plenty of chances to get your questions answered by medical professionals and life experts.
For 2017 there are two locations- so choose the one that’s most convenient for you!
- Dallas, Texas: July 15-16 at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel by the Galleria (4801 LBJ Freeway)
2. West Harrison, New York: July 29-30 at the Renaissance Westchester (80 West Red Oak Lane)
Don’t live near either of the sites? If you’re more than 100 miles away, you can request a need-based lodging scholarship for the night before by emailing [email protected]. IDF wants to make this a convenient opportunity for you.
Although a $50 deposit is required to secure your spot for the event, it will be fully refunded following the retreat’s completion (and it may be waived altogether if you have financial need). Your hotel room for Saturday night–and all programs and meals (Saturday breakfast, lunch and teen dinner, and Sunday breakfast and lunch)–are completely covered by IDF and donations from CSL Behring, Grifols, Horizon Pharma, and Shire.
Let’s just hear those incredible words again- IT’S FREE! So there’s really no excuse not to go.
The weekend will be a time to get away from the day to day trials of living with PI and it’ll be chock-full of opportunities to interact with others who get it.
All you have to do is remember to register.
