International TAPS Day 2022

International TAPS Day is celebrated every year on March 3rd, and this date was chosen as it’s the day our rare disease got its name. March is also significant to the TAPS community, as in 2006, 2 papers were published within days of each other – one describing a rare complication post-TTTS laser surgery where blood vessels were incompletely sealed, causing anemia and polycythemia, and the other describing a similar condition happening spontaneously. Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence is a rare disease affecting twins sharing a placenta caused by tiny connections in blood vessels. These twins have a high risk of complications, and death, and despite mounting evidence to the contrary, screening is not standardized worldwide. Over the past 16 years, valuable connections have been made in the research and patient communities. These connections provide valuable information, incredible research and breakthroughs, and also support for families diagnosed with TAPS. This year we are talking about the connections that have been made, both in research and the wider community, and how we can raise awareness of TAPS together. Our community is small, but the connections we have are strong.