Our origins

About plasma 

Plasma-derived therapies are used daily by thousands of individuals around the world with chronic, rare diseases. The global demand for plasma to create these therapies has been steadily increasing over the years. Recently, plasma demand has hit critical mass. Now more than ever we need heroes to step up and donate plasma if we want to continue to treat those who rely on it. 

Plasma can benefit a wide variety of individuals. In addition to those with primary immunodeficiencies (who rely on immunoglobulin therapy), individuals with blood clotting disorders (such as hemophilia), chronic lung disease, and certain types of cancer count on plasma therapy for survival.  Hospitals use plasma for patients with severe burns, shock, trauma, and for those undergoing certain transplantation.

Because the process to create biologics, specifically plasma-derived therapies, is time and labor intensive, there is no easy way to just "make more".  The process depends on a consistent supply of source plasma from donors. 

The Plasma Hero/IDF connection

An initiative of The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), Plasma Hero is a resource designed to guide individuals through the journey of plasma donation, encourage others to donate, and better support those who rely on plasma-based products. 

Since its founding in 1980, IDF has served those affected by primary immunodeficiencies (PI) through advocacy, education, and research initiatives. There are more than 450 types of PI diagnoses, and the majority of them are treated with immunoglobulin therapy (which is a plasma-derived therapy). Because plasma is a lifelong treatment, the availability of plasma is critical to those with PI and many other rare, chronic diseases.