Did you know that blood plasma donation holds extraordinary significance for the HAE community? For our juniors and young people, plasma-derived medications are often the primary and most reliable treatment option. Without dedicated plasma donors, these essential therapies simply wouldn't exist.

That is why HAE Junior is once again proudly joining the annual International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW), taking place from October 5–9, 2026, to express our tHAEnks to all donors who make active, fulfilling lives possible for our young patients.

What is IPAW?

Held during the first week of October, IPAW is a global initiative coordinated by the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association (PPTA). It aims to raise awareness about source plasma collection, thank plasma donors, and advocate for patients who rely on plasma protein therapies to treat rare, chronic, and genetic conditions.

Unlike traditional synthetic medicines, plasma-derived therapies depend entirely on the generosity of human donors. Plasma proteins carry out critical body functions—from fighting infections to controlling bleeding. For people with HAE and other rare diseases, missing or malfunctioning proteins mean that donated plasma is literally a lifeline.

Theme of this year

This year’s overarching theme, #PlasmaPowersPossibility, highlights how lifesaving plasma medicines open doors for patients—enabling them to go to school, play sports, travel, and pursue their dreams without fear.

Do you want to know more?

Discover more about plasma donation in Europe and access social media toolkits on the IPAW Europe website.