Press Release – April 22, 2016

Immunodeficiency Canada brings 10 Warning Signs every parent should know to life

TORONTO, April 21, 2016 /CNW/ – Immunodeficiency Canada is honoured to have the generous support of the Jeffrey Modell Foundation in bringing the 10 Warning Signs to Canada.

“Our first project, in the early 1990’s was to develop the 10 Warning Signs of Primary Immunodeficiency with the American Red Cross and our newly established Medical Advisory Board. Since then, the 10 Warning Signs have been translated into more than 50 languages and have been distributed throughout the world.”  Says Vicki Modell, Jeffrey Modell Foundation.  

www.info4pi.org

Primary Immunodeficiency (PI) occurs in people with immune systems that are either broken or missing at birth. PI can appear in the form of “common infections”, sometimes leading physicians to treat the infection while missing the underlying cause. Infections can reoccur, leading to vital organ damage, physical disability, or even death.

“Something as simple as awareness can save lives and reduce suffering,” 

Richard Thompson, CEO of Immunodeficiency Canada

There are more than 250 different genetic defects of the immune system recognized by the World Health Organization as a Primary Immunodeficiency. One in 1200 people are affected. Approximately 29,000 Canadians suffer from PI and over 70% are undiagnosed. With early diagnosis, proper care and optimal treatment, individuals can live full and rewarding lives.

Immunodeficiency Canada was founded in 1999 by Dr. Chaim Roifman and John Perl to provides patient support, education, and research into a cure for PI. 

immunodeficiency.ca

During World PI Week, April 22nd – 29th, Public Service Announcements will be screened outdoors at Yonge-Dundas Square, Toronto. Cieslok Media is generously supporting this endeavor to generate awareness with screenings at 3:00 and 4:00 pm on Saturday April 23rd. A pre-screening reception for the families involved in the making of the video will be held at the Hard Rock Café.

“It is a privilege to be able to make a positive difference for Immunodeficiency Canada by reaching the masses and creating awareness through our digital displays at Yonge-Dundas Square”, says Jörg Cieslok, President & CEO of Cieslok Media. “At Cieslok Media, we are committed to being a good corporate citizen by leveraging our network of digital displays to assist organizations doing good for the public and community.” 

www.cieslokmedia.com

Image with caption: “10 Warning Signs of Primary Immunodeficiency (CNW Group/Immunodeficiency Canada)”. Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160420_C1475_PHOTO_EN_671415.jpg

Image with caption: “What is Primary Immunodeficiency (CNW Group/Immunodeficiency Canada)”. Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160420_C1475_PHOTO_EN_671418.jpg

Image with caption: “DNA molecule (CNW Group/Immunodeficiency Canada)”. Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160420_C1475_PHOTO_EN_671420.jpg

Image with caption: “Immunodeficiency Canada Logo (CNW Group/Immunodeficiency Canada)”. Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160420_C1475_PHOTO_EN_671422.jpg

SOURCE Immunodeficiency Canada

For further information:
Dana Ewachow, Immunodeficiency Canada, Community Relations Media, Tel 416-964-3434, Dana.ewachow@immunodeficiency.cawww.immunodeficiency.ca