Hi, I’m Ben.
I am a young advocate for the primary immunodeficiency (PI) community, and I love to speak publicly about my experience living with a PI to spread awareness and empower others.
Ben loves video games, science (especially physics), and coding. He has his sights set on becoming a mechanical engineer because he absolutely loves unraveling the mysteries of how things work. When Ben isn't busy building or tinkering, you'll probably find him playing video games or coding. He enjoys creating his own games and programs, bringing his ideas to life on the screen. Ben loves trivia, especially little-known facts about retro video games.
Ben was diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency (PI) when he was two years old. This means that Ben is more susceptible to infections, so to help boost his immune system, Ben currently receives intravenous immunoglobulin (also known as IVIG) every month. Each IV infusion takes a full day, and while Ben isn't a fan of the poke to start the IVs, he enjoys the long day of video games.
Ben loves to talk about PI and share his experiences to connect with others, advocate, and raise awareness for PI. He has spoken at corporate events and the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) National Conference. Ben also enjoys volunteering with IDF to help co-host virtual Walk for PI virtual events, where he enjoys connecting with others in the community and raising awareness. His passion for sharing his story and his eagerness to make a difference shine through every time he speaks.
About Ben
Visit My Virtual Arcade Fundraising Page
Ben’s Virtual Arcade is a virtual fundraiser Ben started in 2023 to raise money for the IDF Walk for Primary Immunodeficiency (PI). While he doesn’t plan to attend a walk location in-person this year, he’s working on new games for the arcade to continue fundraising through the virtual Coast to Coast walk.
Ben first attended the IDF Walk for Primary Immunodeficiency when he was 3 years old. It was the first time he was able to associate anything fun and positive with having an immune deficiency. Since his first walk for PI, Ben has always enjoyed supporting the Immune Deficiency Foundation in its fundraising efforts.
