A Letter from Our Board Chair, Judi Emmel,
on Giving Tuesday

Today is Giving Tuesday and The Mast Cell Disease Society is reflecting on the impact that our community has had on patients and caregivers. The following story is from our Board Chair, Judi Emmel, who shares how access to education and community resources helped transform her diagnostic journey from one of struggle to hope.
Read her story below:

“When I was first diagnosed with a mast cell disease, I was terrified! Misinformation online had me believe I only had months to live. Trying to find a doctor knowledgeable about these diseases and willing to take me on as a patient was next to impossible. I was ill and I didn’t know where to turn. But, one of my many late night web searches brought me to The Mast Cell Disease Society’s (TMS) website—and everything changed.

The accurate, compassionate information I found there didn’t just educate me. It gave me hope. It saved my sanity. It helped me understand that, if managed well, I could live with this disease. I heard from others who had similar diagnoses, and I knew I wasn’t alone. I learned about the importance of carrying epinephrine everywhere, of taking antihistamines, and of paying attention to the “triggers” that activate my mast cells. I found a doctor who could help. I learned life may be different than it was, but it certainly wasn’t over yet! 

This Giving Tuesday, I’m asking you to help TMS continue being that lifeline for others. Whether you know someone with mast cell disease or you’re learning about it for the first time, your donation funds:

 – Patient education and support when people are most vulnerable
– Training for medical professionals who often haven’t heard of our disease
– Critical research to improve treatments and outcomes
– Awareness campaigns to help patients get diagnosed faster

Every dollar helps someone find hope in their darkest moment.

Donate Today

With my deepest thanks for considering TMS.

Judi Emmel,
Chair,
TMS Board of Directors”

Here are 5 more ways you can give today:

  1. Give Time by signing up to Volunteer with TMS;
  2. Raise awareness by buying and wearing TMS merchandise. TMS gets a portion of the profits and you can spread the word just buy walking around in your community;
  3. Share your story of impact to help inspire others who may be facing the similar challenges as you. Submit your story here: Submission Form
  4. Become a fundraiser by donating your birthday or hosting an event; and/or
  5. Give Money by:
Donate Today

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