Welcome to the Winter 2026 issue of The Count, ITP Australia and New Zealand’s quarterly magazine.
ITPANZ – 2026 The Count Magazine – The Winter 2026
In this issue of The Count…
The Winter 2026 edition brings together cutting‑edge science, lived experience, and community insight to support, inform, and empower people living with Immune Thrombocytopenia across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
This issue features a major deep dive into platelet function research, led by Professor Elizabeth Gardiner, whose work is reshaping clinicians’ understanding of bleeding risk. Her message, that platelet function matters just as much as platelet count, is explored through new imaging, laboratory insights, and emerging tools that may one day help predict bleeding more accurately.
You’ll also find a wide range of articles designed to strengthen confidence, improve understanding, and support wellbeing, including:
Inside the 2026 ITP Patient Conference
Breakthroughs, clarity, and connection from a day that brought together patients, families, clinicians, and researchers from across Australia and New Zealand.
Side Effects and Risk
Dr Danny Hsu breaks down why side effects happen, how to interpret risk, and how to make sense of clinical trial data without fear.
ITP in Adolescents
What teens told us, what doctors want families to know, and how young people can navigate identity, independence, and emotional wellbeing.
Women’s Health and Menopause
Dr Sara Ng explains the overlap between hormones, ageing, and platelet‑related symptoms, and why women deserve care that considers the whole picture.
Myth‑Busting ITP
Associate Professor Dr Phil Choi tackles the biggest misconceptions, from flying with low platelets to the real meaning of “rare” side effects.
Rare Disorders in Aotearoa
A detailed look at the 2025 Rare Disorders NZ White Paper and what it reveals about diagnosis delays, inequities, mental health impacts, and the need for national action.
Growing Up With ITP
A practical, teen‑focused guide exploring fatigue, friendships, school, sport, and how to cope with the emotional load of chronic illness.
Your Story Has Power
Breanna shares her journey of diagnosis, treatment challenges, and the strength she found through family, community, and connection.
This issue also includes updates on the ITPANZ News Hub, new patient resources, clinical trial information, and ways to stay connected through the Beyond the Count podcast.
Wherever you are on your ITP journey, we hope this issue offers clarity, confidence, and the reassurance that you are part of a strong, supportive community across Australia and New Zealand.