History

In 1999, Dr. Chaim Roifman, a global expert on Primary Immunodeficiency; Mr. Jay Lefton; and Mr. John Perl established the Canadian Immunodeficiency Society (CI Society) to provide patient support, education, and research into a cure for Primary Immunodeficiency.

In 2006, additional Board members were recruited and programs were expanded.

In 2007, the PI Physician Network was launched with the support Fred and Vicki Model of the Jeffrey Modell Foundation.

In 2012, it undertook a branding exercise with donors, patients, volunteers, and healthcare professionals to better reflect the goals, expanded programs, and services of the organization. Now called Immunodeficiency Canada.

Recent Accomplishments:

  • Developed Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy Guidelines that were adopted in full by the Ministry of Health (2017).
  • In 2013 secured newborn screening for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) in Ontario.
  • Supported training for 28 fellows/residents in Immunology.
  • Funded research at SickKids, CHU Sainte-Justine, B.C. Children’s Hospital, and Montreal Children’s Hospital, along with the Edith Wolfson Medical Center in Israel.
  • Supports 16 diagnostic and treatment centres across Canada.
  • In 2017 hosted the 5th SCID Symposium at the CSACI annual Scientific Meeting.
  • Provides emergency financial support to families with a hospitalized child at six different centres.
  • Recognized for effective communications and exemplary engagement with an audience by Constant Contact with a 2016 and 2017 All Star Award.