About the Seeds of Change initiative
Welcome to Seeds of Change.
Seeds of Change is an initiative that brings together and empowers people impacted by hypoparathyroidism (also known as hypopara) around the world. Inspired by nature, Seeds of Change captures the positive concept of taking action today for a brighter tomorrow.
Whether you are living with, know someone living with, or are caring for someone with hypopara, we hope that by shining a light on this condition and community, you will feel empowered and ready to advocate for improved care and quality of life.
What is Hypopara?
Hypopara, is a rare endocrine disease, caused by insufficient levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the body1. The parathyroid glands lie behind the thyroid gland in the neck. They produce PTH, which plays a major role in regulating the body’s blood levels of calcium and phosphorus by acting directly on bones and kidneys and indirectly on the intestine.2,3 If the parathyroid glands are removed, destroyed, or defective, this may lead to insufficient levels of PTH.2,4
Hypopara may result from:2,5
(most common)
Recognizing Symptoms
Hypopara affects numerous systems in the body and is associated with a range of short-term symptoms and long-term complications. These include neuromuscular irritability, kidney complications, calcification outside of the bone, and cognitive impairment.2,4,6 Below are some of the body systems where an imbalance of PTH levels may have an impact, along with potential signs and symptoms*:4
*These manifestations are mostly the result of management with calcium and active vitamin D rather than the disease itself.
Living with Hypopara
People with hypopara may experience a range of physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms that may impact their employment, daily and social lives, and overall well-being.7,8
The management of hypopara can be associated with substantial economic burdens, and consequences of hypoparathyroidism may negatively impact employment status and work productivity.3,7
The Hypopara Butterfly
Hypopara is sometimes visually represented as a butterfly, which has become a recognized symbol of thyroid awareness. Butterflies are universally understood to signify change and hope for those living with a challenging condition.
The connection between seeds and butterflies in nature take this one step further. Seeds represent the beginning of life and future potential. Butterflies symbolize freedom, transformation, and new beginnings. Together, they convey the idea of starting small – like a seed – and evolving into something beautiful and free, like a butterfly.
Just as a butterfly undergoes a profound transformation in its lifecycle, people living with hypopara experience their own journey learning to recognize the symptoms and highs and lows of living with the condition.
To reflect this, the Seeds of Change team will be designing a Hypopara Butterfly wall mural that brings to life the challenges and hopes associated with hypopara.
