Sporting Purple: Raising Awareness for Platelet Disorders

 

Why purple matters

Purple has become a unifying symbol for platelet disorder awareness, helping communities rally around patients, spark conversations, and drive education,

early checks, and support.

Understanding platelet disorders

Platelet disorders, including immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), affect blood clots, leading to easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, petechiae,

fatigue, and in severe cases internal bleeding risks.

Key moments and campaigns

Each September, global awareness efforts highlight ITP and other platelet conditions,

with community events, landmark lightings, and social media challenges amplifying patient stories.

Sport Purple for Platelets Day

Wearing purple, organizing photo campaigns, and lighting up spaces in purple are simple actions that

elevate visibility, reduce stigma, and connect newly diagnosed families with help.

Signs to watch

• Unexplained bruising, frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and petechiae (tiny red or purple skin spots).

• Heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged bleeding after cuts or dental work, persistent fatigue.

Getting a diagnosis

A complete blood count (CBC) to check platelet levels, peripheral smear, and clinical evaluation help pinpoint causes while ruling out medication effects, infections, or other hematologic issues.

Treatment pathways

• Observation for mild cases, especially when platelet counts are stable and symptoms are low.

• First-line options may include corticosteroids or IVIG to raise counts; second-line options can involve TPO receptor agonists, rituximab, or splenectomy when appropriate.

• Supportive care includes injury precautions, coordinating dental and surgical care, and reviewing medications that increase bleeding risk.

Everyday safety tips

• Use soft-bristle toothbrushes and electric razors; avoid contact sports and high‑impact activities when counts are low.

• Limit or avoid NSAIDs and certain supplements that affect platelets unless advised by a clinician.

• Keep a symptom and bruise diary to track patterns and share with the care team.

Supporting mental health

Living with fluctuating counts can be stressful; counseling, peer groups, and caregiver support reduce isolation and improve coping, sleep, and treatment adherence.

School and workplace accommodations

• Provide a physician note outlining activity limits, bleeding precautions, and emergency steps.

• Plan safe PE alternatives, modify workloads during flares, and ensure quick access to first aid.

How communities can help

• Host a “Purple Day” at schools, offices, and clubs to share facts, stories, and safety tips.

• Organize walks, blood‑donation drives, and story-sharing circles to uplift patient voices and raise funds.

• Create local resource kits listing hematology clinics, emergency protocols, and support groups.

Digital advocacy ideas

• Share short videos explaining platelet roles in clotting and why low counts matter.

• Post myth‑versus‑fact carousels, and use hashtags like #SportPurpleForPlatelets, #ITPAwareness, and #PlateletStrong to connect efforts.

• Encourage photo challenges featuring purple outfits, art, and illuminated landmarks.

For newly diagnosed families

• Build a care team with a hematologist, primary clinician, and nurse navigator; ask about monitoring cadence, treatment triggers, and emergency plans.

• Seek a second opinion if unsure, and request written guidance for surgery, travel, pregnancy, and infections.

A call to action

Sporting purple is more than a color choice—it’s a pledge to listen, learn, and lift up everyone living with platelet disorders, turning awareness into practical support and safer, more informed communities.