Missed the conference? No worries! You can still access all the recordings for $25; they are available for purchase here (click on “Purchase Conference Sessions” at the top right).

Then, from April 26-28, 2025, the ICA staff and members of the board participated in the annual American Urological Association conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, by hosting a booth at the expo and convention center. This was an excellent opportunity for the ICA to remind healthcare providers about how our organization can benefit their patients (and them!) We were also able to present some key findings from the Patient-Reported Outcomes Committee at the Global Consensus on IC/BPS meeting.

It is always a privilege to represent the patient community and ensure our voice is heard!

These proclamations help bring attention to the challenges faced by those affected by IC/BPS and emphasize the need for continued support and research. The ICA, with the support of the IC/BPS community, worked hard to achieve this recognition and our efforts are making a difference in increasing visibility and understanding of the condition. This success sets a strong foundation for future advocacy and awareness initiatives.

My deep belief in this organization and desire to help others with IC/BPS inspired me to take on a leadership position within the ICA. After joining the ICA’s Board of Directors, I took on the role of Fundraising Committee Chair, then served as Vice Chair, and now, proudly step into the Chair position.
I was diagnosed with IC/BPS in 2005, and my journey has been a difficult one, as I’m sure you can relate. Particularly in the early days after my diagnosis, I felt incredibly isolated. I didn’t know anyone else with IC/BPS and had no idea how drastically my life would change. The fear, pain, anger, sadness, confusion, and loneliness were overwhelming.

Pretty quickly, I turned to the ICA. I am so thankful that I did. I learned more about IC/BPS, understood what to look for in my care team, and most importantly, connected with others who cared and understood me. Without the ICA and the support system I have built through them, I truly don’t know where I would be today – or if I would even be here.

Today, I need to ask you for help. The ICA is strongly funded by individuals just like you. However, in the last few years, donations have decreased. I am asking you to mark the ICA’s 40th anniversary with a donation. We need every single dollar, and we put every dollar to good use. Please help me ensure that every person who needs the ICA’s help, like I did in 2005, has the resources they need in the moments they need them most.

We need you more than ever. Will you help us continue our vital work?

Gratefully yours,
Claudia King
ICA Board Chair

P.S. Mark the ICA’s milestone 40th anniversary with a gift today at ichelp.org/ICALegacy. We can’t do it without you!

The ICA is the only nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of healthcare and lives of people living with IC/BPS and is a 501(c)(3) organization (EIN 13-3292137).

The MAC plays a leadership role by providing medical and scientific expertise to advance the ICA mission. To learn more and/or apply, visit our ICA Recruiting Medical Advisory Council Members webpage.

The deadline to apply is Friday, September 20, 2024.

Register for our FREE monthlong event to receive weekly emails with resources and content from IC/BPS experts. You’ll also have access to 2 live webinars, providing valuable insights and support.

Our IC Awareness Month store is now open, so head over to bonfire.com/interstitial-cystitis-association to grab your t-shirt or sweatshirt.

Join us in celebrating our 40th Anniversary and show off your new ICA gear!

While many IC/BPS specific support groups continue to operate around the county, this partnership allows the ICA to expand our reach and increase access for those living with or supporting those with IC/BPS.

In addition to our partnership with the U.S. Pain Foundation, the ICA has recently updated our support group listing page. We now feature only active support groups, ensuring that individuals seeking connection and understanding can find relevant resources. If you’re part of an active support group not currently listed, please reach out to us at icamail@ichelp.org. Together, we can continue to foster a supportive environment for everyone affected by IC/BPS.