Julia’s Wings Foundation is gearing up for the Operation Wear Red Campaign in an effort to raise awareness for the rare blood disorder aplastic anemia. From the first of March until the seventh, the entire town of New Fairfield, Connecticut will be filled with red shirts, bows, flags, lights, and other decorations. This year marks the seventh anniversary of the campaign, and organizers are excited to raise money and awareness.
About Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a condition in which the body is unable to produce enough blood cells. It can develop at any age, vary in severity, and progress over time. It results in fatigue, shortness of breath, an irregular heart rate, frequent infection, pale skin, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, unexplained and easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from injuries, skin rash, dizziness, fevers, and headaches.
This condition is caused by damaged stem cells; they are unable to produce enough blood cells. The most common reason for this underproduction is the immune system attacking the stem cells. Other possible causes include radiation or chemotherapy treatments, the use of certain drugs, exposure to chemicals, viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and pregnancy. There are other causes that doctors have yet to identify as well. Two tests are used to diagnose aplastic anemia. Doctors will conduct blood tests or bone marrow biopsies. After a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment consists of blood transfusions, immunosuppressants, bone marrow stimulants, antibiotics, antivirals, and stem cell transplants.
Julia’s Wings Foundation
This foundation was created in memory of Julia Malsin, who passed away due to aplastic anemia in 2012 at thirteen years old. It was created to honor Julia’s last wish: no child will have to undergo treatment alone.
To grant this wish, Julia’s family, along with help from the community, established Julia’s Wings Foundation in 2013. It financially assists those who are impacted by aplastic anemia, as well as raises awareness and funds for research. As of now, the foundation has donated over $400,000 to families in need and research.
If you would like to get involved with the foundation and its cause, click here.
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