The Thalassemia Foundation was founded in 1982 by Angela Polsinelli, the parent of a patient, with the help of a few other parents and patients. It was created because there was a large number of thalassemia patients in the Toronto area, but there was no structured association available. Dr. Freedman asked Angela if she would start an organization, and she agreed. The Cooley's Anemia Foundation in New York City was instrumental in teaching Angela the ropes in regards to setting up an organization in Ontario. more... See more text