Mother details harrowing journey to son's diagnosis and relief of finding the PI community

Thomas was born prematurely at barely three pounds and spent his early years often coughing, congested, sick with ear and sinus infections, and frequent hospital visits, which left his family desperate for answers. 

One day, things took a turn for the worse. His mother, Beth, said, "I experienced the worst day of my life when he stopped breathing at home and I had to perform CPR." This terrifying moment led them to a new hospital and care team who would change everything, including a diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency (PI).  

During this journey, the family's favorite nurse, Debbie, introduced them to the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), and it changed their lives by offering an understanding community, essential resources, and expert guidance.

Since getting involved with the foundation, the family has attended Walk for PI and the PI Conference in 2024.  According to Beth, "to say the conference was heartwarming is an understatement. Thomas saw others like him, all fighting the same fight. He wasn't alone anymore - and neither were we."

As for Beth's advice for fellow individuals and families on their journey with PI, she says, "my advice is don't give up! Keep asking questions and be your own advocate. I had to be tough for my son, and the Immune Deficiency Foundation helped me do that."