Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA, also known as IMHA), is a serious, often fatal, blood disorder of dogs and other species. In AIHA/IMHA, abnormal antibodies stick to the red blood cells and cause the body to believe the red blood cells are a “foreign invader.” The dog’s immune system attacks the red blood cells and destroys them, leading to anemia. Scientists estimate over 50 percent of dogs with hemolytic anemia will die from the condition, usually within weeks of diagnosis.
Meisha, a lovable lab/terrier/spaniel mix, beat the odds and lived for nearly 10 years after her AIHA diagnosis at age 3. After her death in November 2001, her owners vowed to stop this disease from taking the lives of other dogs. They established the Meisha’s Hope AIHA/IMHA Fund #338 at Morris Animal Foundation, which is dedicated to funding research into this deadly disease.
The Dicksons exemplify the ability of individuals to make the world a better place for dogs. Thanks to them, MAF is funding more research into preventing, treating and hopefully one day curing this disease. Read more about Meisha’s story, symptoms of AIHA/IMHA and survivor stories on the Meisha’s Hope Web site, established by Joanne Dickson.
Click here to support Meisha’s Hope – 100 percent of all gifts will be applied directly to studies on AIHA/IMHA.
Thousands have joined the fight, including Steve Marcus, founder of Marcus Motorsports, whose beloved Tasha is winning the fight against AIHA. Read Tasha’s story and see how Steve Marcus is supporting Meisha’s Hope through BMW racing by clicking here.
Click here to read AIHA/IMHA research successes.
