Strengthening our voice in Europe: new Alpha-1 representatives join ERN-LUNG ePAG
The Alpha-1 community continues to strengthen its presence at European level with the formal acceptance of new representatives into the ePAG of ERN-LUNG in January 2026. Three new Alpha-1 representatives — Marion Wilkens (Germany), Ron Ewals (Netherlands) and Edwin Brekelmans (Netherlands) — have been formally accepted into the European Patient Advocacy Group (ePAG) of ERN-LUNG.
Plasma supply: a European strategic vulnerability
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance participated in the 4th biennial joint Symposium on Plasma Collection and Supply organized by the International Plasma and Fractionation Association IPFA and the European Blood Alliance EBA, held in the University Hall of Leuven, Belgium on 11-12 February 2026.
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance brings Alpha-1 priorities to the heart of EU policymaking
At the European Parliament, the Alpha-1 Foundation joined experts, patient representatives, and EU policymakers in a session hosted by MEP Olivier Chastel to advance fairer Alpha-1 diagnosis and care.
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance engages in the first European Respiratory Patient Academy in Prague
The Alpha-1 Europe Alliance participated in the inaugural European Respiratory Patient Academy in Prague, joining advocates from across Europe to strengthen patient leadership in respiratory health. Over four days, participants built practical skills, shared experiences, and explored ways to drive meaningful change in research, policy and care.
Two years of impact: Our President reflects on Alpha-1 Europe Alliance’s journey
As the Alpha-1 Europe Alliance (A1EA) celebrates its second anniversary, we spoke with Fernanda, one of the driving forces behind the organization, to reflect on its achievements, the strength of its community, and the road ahead.
DNA & RNA: Understanding the blueprint behind AATD
On October 22-23, 2025, the Alpha-1 Europe Alliance hosted a highly engaging webinar series titled “DNA & RNA: Understanding the Blueprint Behind AATD”, describing in plain language the molecular mechanisms underlying Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD).
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance launches first European campaign for International Plasma Awareness Week 2025
From October 6–10, 2025, Alpha-1 Europe Alliance is proud to join the global community in celebrating International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW2025). This annual initiative raises awareness about the vital importance of plasma donation, honors the generosity of donors, and highlights the life-saving impact of plasma-derived medicinal products (PDMPs) for people living with rare, chronic, and life-threatening conditions.
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance holds its 3rd Annual General Assembly
The Alpha-1 Europe Alliance successfully held its 3rd Annual General Assembly, bringing together member organisations, Board members, and team collaborators. The online gathering held on June 17th served as a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, and to collectively shape the vision and strategic direction for 2025.
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance present at EMM 2025
The Alpha-1 Europe Alliance proudly participated in the EURORDIS Membership Meeting (EMM) 2025, held in Riga, Latvia, from 22–24 May, with over 140 participants. Representing the Alliance were Frank Willersinn, MD, Board Member of A1EA, and Karin Schmid, President of Alpha-1 Switzerland, a member organisation of the Alliance.
Alpha-1 Europe Alliance participates in IPPC 2025
Fernanda Aspilche, President, and Heinz Stutzenberger, Vice-President of the Alpha-1 Europe Alliance, attended the International Plasma Protein Congress (IPPC 2025), held in Warsaw, Poland, from 20–21 May. This leading annual meeting of the plasma sector brought together 300 participants, including industry leaders, policymakers, healthcare professionals, patient advocates from around the world — and even a plasma donor.