In Part 2 of our Stages of Life series, NinaMaria and Dr. Kevin Kuo welcome back Dr. Scott Peslak for a deep dive into the unique considerations thalassemia patients face in their 20s, 30s, and beyond. The conversation covers fertility and pregnancy planning, navigating cellular therapies, and balancing parenthood with thalassemia care. Dr. Peslak also discusses aging with thalassemia, from fatigue and bone health to cardiac and endocrine monitoring, emphasizing how proactive care and the right medical team can support long, thriving lives. This episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical guidance for anyone moving through adulthood with thalassemia.

SHOW DESCRIPTION

Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by thalassemia. Each episode strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the thalassemia community. Learn more about thalassemia by visiting RethinkThalassemia.com. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. Thal Pals is sponsored by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more.

This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions.

TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT

Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is made possible by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more. The following Agios-supported programs are intended for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions. Hosts and guest featured in this episode have been compensated for their time.

Being an adult with thalassemia comes with unique challenges—and victories—at every stage of life. On this episode of Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution, patient advocate NinaMaria Badalamenti and co-host Dr. Kevin Kuo sit down with Dr. Scott Peslak, physician scientist and director of the Adult Comprehensive Thalassemia Program at UPenn.

From navigating the tricky transition from pediatric to adult care, to managing transfusions, iron chelation, and long-term health in your 30s, 40s, and beyond, Dr. Peslak shares insights for thriving at every age. He also highlights what life looks like for patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond—and why comprehensive adult care and new research initiatives are critical for the future of the thalassemia community.

Whether you're newly navigating adult care, managing chronic treatment, or supporting a loved one, this episode gives real-world guidance, hope, and strategies to help you live well with thalassemia.

🎧 Listen now — link in bio!

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Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by thalassemia. Each episode strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates and voices from the thalassemia community.

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Thal Pals is sponsored by @Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more.

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This podcast is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team with any treatment re­lated questions.

In this special episode, NinaMaria steps into the guest seat as Dr. Kevin Kuo interviews her about her lived experience with transfusion-dependent thalassemia. She opens up about the gratitude she feels for transfusions, the logistical and emotional challenges of treatment days, and how fatigue and scheduling impact her daily life. Together, they explore what new patients should know when considering transfusions, including practical tips, self-compassion, and advocating for personal needs. This honest, relatable conversation offers valuable insight for patients, caregivers, and providers navigating the transfusion journey.

SHOW DESCRIPTION

Thal Pals: The Alpha Beta Revolution Podcast is intended for patients, caregivers, providers, and the greater community of people who are impacted by thalassemia. Each episode strives to provide listeners with critical education, the latest scientific updates, and voices from the thalassemia community. Learn more about thalassemia by visiting RethinkThalassemia.com. Join an inclusive community and build connections with other hemolytic anemia allies by following @AllyVoicesRising on Instagram. Thal Pals is sponsored by Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc. Visit Agios.com to learn more.

This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please speak with your healthcare professional before making any treatment decisions.