If you've ever wondered what IVIG is, how it works, or when it's used to treat ITP, this episode is for you. Host Barbara Pruitt is joined by two leading experts, Dr. James Bussel and Dr. Charlotte Cunningham-Rundles, to answer the questions patients ask most often. Learn how IVIG is made, why it can raise platelet counts so quickly, what side effects to expect, and simple steps you can take to make treatment more comfortable. Whether you've received IVIG before or are considering it for the first time, this conversation will help you better understand one of the most common treatments for ITP and feel more confident discussing it with your healthcare team.

IVIG for ITP: What It Is, How It Works, and When You Need It

What should you do if an ITP emergency happens? While critical bleeding is rare, knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can make all the difference. In this episode, renowned hematologist Dr. Donald Arnold discusses the new Emergency Management Guidelines for ITP, explains when a trip to the emergency room is truly necessary, and clears up common misconceptions about emergency treatment. Whether you've been living with ITP for years or are newly diagnosed, you'll come away feeling more informed, more prepared, and more confident if the unexpected ever happens.

When ITP Becomes an Emergency: What You Need to Know

In this episode of Bruised but Not Broken: Living with ITP, Barbara Pruitt talks with hematologist Dr. Camila Masias about how ITP is diagnosed and why it’s considered a “diagnosis of exclusion.” They discuss the tests doctors use to rule out other causes of low platelets, why certain procedures like bone marrow biopsies are not always necessary, and how updated clinical guidelines are helping improve patient care. It’s an informative conversation designed to help patients better understand the diagnostic process and become stronger advocates for their own health.

ITP Diagnosis Explained: Why the Right Tests Matter

In recognition of Lupus Awareness Month, this episode explores the important connection between lupus and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), two autoimmune conditions that can sometimes overlap. Host Barbara Pruitt is joined by guests Cathy Aldama and Beth Siegelbaum, who share their personal journeys to diagnosis, the challenges of managing both conditions, and how their experiences have evolved over time. From unexpected symptoms and second opinions to treatment decisions and day-to-day realities, their stories highlight just how different each path can look. You’ll also hear powerful insights on self-advocacy, working with the right doctors, and why education is key to living well. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been navigating ITP or lupus for years, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

When Symptoms Don’t Add Up: The Overlap of Lupus and ITP

If treating pediatric ITP can sometimes feel like trial and error, this episode helps explain why—and what’s being done to change that. Host Barbara Pruitt talks with Dr. Kristin Shimano about the growing role of collaboration in advancing research, improving treatment decisions, and focusing not just on platelet counts, but on quality of life for patients. You’ll get an inside look at how specialists are working together across North America to better understand this rare disease and what that means for families searching for answers and hope.

Transforming Pediatric ITP Research: Inside the Pediatric ITP Consortium of North America (ICON)

When a small shaving cut wouldn’t stop bleeding, Michael Barden had no idea it would lead to a life-changing diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and later, Evans syndrome. In this powerful episode, Michael shares the shocking moment police were sent to his home because his platelet count had dropped to 3,000, multiple extended hospital stays, ICU admissions, transfusions, and the emotional toll of living between unpredictable lab numbers. But this is more than a medical story. It’s about resilience, becoming your own advocate, educating doctors, supporting the rare disease community, and finding purpose through PDSA and volunteer work. Michael’s honesty about fear, frustration, and hope makes this an episode you won’t want to miss.

A Life-Altering Battle with ITP, Evans Syndrome, and Uncertainty: Michael's Journey

In this episode of Bruised but Not Broken: Living with ITP, host Barbara Pruitt is joined by PDSA leaders Peter Pruitt and Derek Zimmerman for a behind-the-scenes look at how the organization is run and why strong leadership matters to patients. The conversation explores what a nonprofit board of directors actually does, how PDSA has grown into a trusted advocate for the ITP community, and how lived patient experience helps guide advocacy, research, and long-term impact—offering listeners insight, reassurance, and a deeper understanding of the work happening on their behalf.

How PDSA's Board Helps Shape the Future of the ITP Community

This episode dives into one of the most common—and most confusing—questions people with ITP ask: Why do I have it, and could it be inherited? Dr. Michele Lambert, a leading pediatric hematologist and expert in platelet disorders, breaks down the difference between inherited thrombocytopenia and immune-mediated ITP in clear, relatable terms. She explains how genetics, immune system “confusion,” family history, and targeted testing all play a role in getting the right diagnosis—and why that matters for choosing the most effective treatment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have lived with ITP for years, this conversation offers eye-opening insights, practical takeaways, and real hope for more personalized care in the future.

Understanding the Difference Between Inherited and Immune Thrombocytopenia

In this episode, Barbara Pruitt sits down with pediatric hematologist Dr. Rachael Grace to take the mystery out of clinical trials for ITP. Dr. Grace explains what clinical trials are, how they differ from standard treatment, and why both research studies and clinical trials play a crucial role in improving care. They discuss when a clinical trial might be a good option; common concerns patients have, what participation actually looks like, and how research has already shaped major advancements in ITP treatment. Whether you’re curious about future options, want to help move ITP research forward, or simply want to better understand what your hematologist might be recommending, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and insight straight from an expert.

Your Role in ITP Research: When to Consider a Clinical Trial

In this inspiring episode of Bruised but Not Broken: Living with ITP, meet Wyatt Critchfield, a ninth-grade ITP warrior, and his mom, Brittany, as they share how a love for cars turned into a powerful fundraiser for the Platelet Disorder Support Association. From organizing their first car show and raising $1,000, to spreading awareness in their community and connecting with others living with blood disorders, Wyatt and Brittany open up about the challenges and triumphs of life with ITP. You’ll hear Wyatt's perspective on living with weekly treatments, Brittany's pride in seeing her son lead with courage, and their advice for families who want to start their own fundraisers. This heartfelt conversation shows how passion, creativity, and community can turn obstacles into opportunities.

Family, Fundraising, and Awareness: Turning a Passion for Cars into Purpose

Platelet Disorder Support Association (@barbarapruitt) · Zencastr

Platelet Disorder Support Association (@barbarapruitt)

The diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia may leave you wondering – how can I really live my life with ITP? PDSA’s podcast, “Bruised but not Broken: Living with ITP”, brings you empowering stories, lifestyle tips, and answers to the real-life questions the ITP community is asking.

Bruised But Not Broken: Living with ITP