Our Journey

Our journey began in 2015 when our 2-year-old son was diagnosed with a rare blood disease called immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).  His immune system thinks his platelets are bad and destroys them resulting in a consistent, low platelet count.  The biggest risk associated with ITP is uncontrolled bleeding as a result of a trauma or a spontaneous internal bleed.  Most children recover a few months after being diagnosed. Unfortunately, he did not and is now considered to have chronic ITP.  

There is no known cure for chronic ITP, but we have been blessed to find a treatment that helps to manage symptoms and stabilize his platelet count.  Yet, we are no closer to understanding the cause or identifying a cure.  The one thing that has made this journey difficult is we don’t know anyone personally that has been impacted by chronic ITP, and it can be lonely, isolating and confusing.  We began to realize there are many caregivers, like us, trying to find connections, information, and support so they can help their children and remain hopeful.

Chris has almost 2 decades of healthcare business experience and has learned a lot about the challenges families face seeking and receiving a difficult diagnosis.  Pediatric cancers affect about 15,000 children a year in the US, and rare diseases impact approximately 150 million children around the world.  We want to help.  

Our name, Cooperative Health, was chosen on purpose.  We believe the answers to the most important and difficult questions about these diseases depend upon empowered communities and a cooperative mindset.  The Cooperative Health App is the foundation for a broader technology platform that will serve the needs of families over time.