American Porphyria Foundation Purple Light Blog

· Springtime allergies: Nip them in the bud Relieve springtime allergies with these tried-and-true techniques. By Mayo Clinic staff Spring means flower buds and blooming trees — and if you're one of the millions of people who have springtime allergies, it also means sneezing, congestion, runny nose and other bothersome symptoms. Springtime allergies — also called hay fever and allergic rhinitis — can make you miserable. But before you settle for plastic flowers and artificial turf, try these simple strategies to keep springtime allergies under control. Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers There are a number of things that you can do to reduce your exposure to the things that trigger your allergy signs and symptoms (allergens): ·Stay indoors on dry, windy days — the best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air. ·Delegate lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergens. ·Remove clothes you've worn outside; you may als…

A mini Interview with Victor about how he deals daily with EPP.  Victor has made so many changes in his life he also serves as an administrator for the APF Facebook.  His wife Sue also shares her views on this disease and how the two of them find comfort and joy despite having Porphyria.  Enjoy reading all.


I was diagnosed with EPP when I was 6 I am now 43. My childhood was very tough. I had no one to talk to about my problem and I didn't understand it myself. People always looked at me funny and made fun of me because I couldn't play with them. I was very depressed as a child not knowing how I would survive and grow up to have a productive life. Now I have 3 kids and a new wife. They all try to understand but only "WE" with EPP truly understand each others pain. Life is not easy hiding in the shadows. There are many things I cant do because of my disorder. I missed most of my kids sports, parades and family events. Today was the first day I felt the burn of the sun o…