04/07/2026
In March, LFB Plasma welcomed Cindi Stepanov, a speaker from the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) to the LFB Plasma Collection Center in Anniston, Alabama Center. Cindi told our Anniston team members about her 20-year journey living with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID), including 18 years of IVIG treatment. Her journey began in 2005 when she was working as a critical care nurse and suddenly became ill with a high fever, sore throat, and persistent cough. What seemed to be a routine illness ultimately led to a life-changing diagnosis.
As Cindi came to understand her condition, she stepped away from her career as a nurse due to the demands of her health. She received her first IVIG infusion on New Year’s Day in 2007 after experiencing severe complications. This infusion marked the start of her long-term treatment. Over time, infusions became routine and critical to maintaining her health and stability.
Cindi also shared her personal battle with infertility and endometriosis, and the challenges she faced while pursuing motherhood. After undergoing treatment and surgery, she conceived her son who is now 16 years old. During her pregnancy, she required increased IVIG support to protect both herself and her child. Despite experiencing serious complications during delivery, including a high fever and significant blood loss, she persevered and remains grateful to be here today with her healthy son.
Cindi has dedicated herself to supporting others with immune deficiency by becoming actively involved in the IDF community and participating in seminars to uplift women and families facing similar challenges. She thanked the LFB Anniston team for their role in collecting and processing plasma to support patients like her. Our staff was moved her personal story as they saw how their daily efforts saved the lives of Cindi and other patients.