Donor spotlight: The Myjak family

The Myjak family first discovered the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) 14 years ago while searching for answers regarding their sick nine-year-old daughter, Jessica. After visiting numerous specialists and pediatricians who all reached the same conclusion “nothing was wrong,” Connie Myjak, Jessica's mother, hit a breaking point.  

Connie and her husband knew that Jessica's illnesses were not typical, and they wanted to fight for their daughter. This is when they began researching on their own and discovered the IDF website. This led them to be referred to an immunologist who tested Jessica’s antibody levels through several different trials of the Prevnar and Pneumovax vaccines. Every test clearly showed that Jessica’s antibody levels were low, which led to her diagnosis of hypogammaglobulinemia in 2009.  

Shortly after Jessica’s diagnosis, the Myjak family attended IDF’s Primary Immunodeficiency Conference in Florida and discovered the PI community.  

Connie states, “We laughed because we couldn't believe there were so many people that were experiencing the same difficulties we were, and we cried because we couldn't believe how hard the stories were. But through it all, we were happy because we finally felt the love and support of a community that understands the journey we face.” 

Today, the Myjak family still supports the Immune Deficiency Foundation even though Jessica is all grown up. They most recently donated in 2021 to show their support to the organization that gave them hope when they needed it most.  

When asked why they continue to give to IDF, Connie shares, “We give to IDF because they are the leaders in legislation, research, sharing of information, and support for people with PI. We reach out to IDF when there is a new dilemma to face as Jessica grows and changes. With help from IDF, Jessica has graduated from high school and college.  She has started her first job and is doing well. She is thriving and doing more than we ever thought possible (even in the face of COVID). We are truly thankful for IDF.” 

Thank you to the Myjak family for sharing your story and supporting us throughout the years. We greatly appreciate it.  

If the Myjak family inspired you to share your PI story, please email us at stories@primaryimmune.org.