Most of you will know that Dad has had some significant health issues in the last few years. While currently stable and able to live a comfortable life, we remain reliant on the work and support of Southampton Haematology Department.

Dad has a very rare blood related disease called Cold Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia (CADs) or Cold Agglitinin Disease. This is where his body reacts to the cold and prematurely destroys his red blood cells. This can cause him to become anaemic very quickly, and has resulted in numerous periods of hospitalisation, required weekly blood tests and regular monitoring to ensure that he is on the correct treatment.

At every stage, the hospital staff have had to accommodate keeping his blood warm by running his blood tests straight to the laboratory because they will haemolyse if allowed to get cold (one nurse was so careful, she placed the vial in her cleavage to ensure it was kept warm on her jog across the hospital!) 

There are numerous repercussions of the illness which range from dad having to stay indoors when its cold outside, his liver being compromised due to being under constant strain, having periods of fluid retention and requiring blood transfusions.

CADs is so rare that there is no charity or organisation in the UK which specifically supports the research into how and why this occurs.

At Southampton Hospitals Charity, I am able to request all funds raised will specifically go to the Haematology Department to support their on going work which is vital to Dads well being and continued treatment.