A Journey of Hope & Progress
Since its founding, CAF has been on a mission to make a difference in the lives of those affected. Our journey is filled with milestones and miracles, each representing a step forward in research, patient support, and advocacy. This timeline showcases the significant moments that have shaped our organization, the breakthroughs that have redefined possibilities, and the countless stories of resilience and hope.
1954
The Ficarra Family establishes the Cooley's Anemia Foundation from the back of their Brooklyn store.
1964
CAF collaborates with NY Academy of Sciences to present the First Cooley’s Anemia Symposium, an international gathering of Thalassemia experts.
1968
FDA approves first iron chelator, Deferoxamine, which helps fight iron overload from transfusions.
1969
The first baby is born to a patient with Thalassemia Major.
1982
Bone marrow transplant eliminates the need for transfusions for some patients.
2007
Gene therapy is used for the first time in a patient with Thalassemia.
2011
Thalassemia patient, Ben Li competes in the NYC Marathon and FDA approves oral chelator, Ferriprox.
2011
CAF holds first Care Walk, raising fund and awareness across the nation.
2018
With adoptions accounting for 15% of patients in CAF database, CAF starts program to recognize families of newly adopted children with Thalassemia
2022
Ralph Colasanti is first Thalassemia patient elected President of the Cooley’s Anemia Foundation.
2024
CAF celebrates 70 years of accomplishments and achievements in the leading the fight against Thalassemia. Advocacy, research and a caring community are making what was once impossible
now possible.
