Polly Torian’s favorite activities were painting and playing her guitar – until her 12th birthday. That’s when inflamed nerves started causing numbness. A frightening episode of paralysis from the shoulders down sent her to the emergency room.
Soon she was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy or CIDP, a rare disorder that causes the immune system to attack the peripheral nerves. But thanks to plasma donors, Torian received immunoglobulin therapy and could return to hanging out with her friends, creating art and making music.The Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA), an industry group, recently shared Torian’s story in USA TODAY.
“For many who live with rare and chronic diseases, it can feel like the odds are stacked against them,” said Amy Efantis, PPTA President and CEO. “But your donation can help them defy the odds. In only 90 minutes, you can literally give the gift of life.”
Visit USA TODAY to hear more about Torian’s story and learn about plasma donation.
