About Colors of SM
What is SM?
- Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare disease caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal mast cells, which play an important role in immune responses.1 It is estimated to occur in 1 in 10,000 adults in the US.2,3,4
- As the cells accumulate and activate in different parts of the body, people with SM can experience chronic, unpredictable, debilitating and potentially life-threatening symptoms, including cardiovascular, neurologic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, skin and musculoskeletal issues.
What is the purpose of Colors of SM?
- Colors of SM: Expressions of Life with Systemic Mastocytosis is a program developed by Blueprint Medicines in collaboration with Twist Out Cancer that uses artwork to illuminate the diverse experiences, expectations and hopes of people affected by SM.
- As part of the program, the individual affected by SM shares their story and over the course of about six months, the artist creates a unique work of art that is reflective of the person’s experience with SM.
- People who are living with or affected by SM (e.g., caring for a loved one living with SM) are encouraged to apply. You can apply for the program here.
How does Colors of SM work?
- People who are affected by SM, including care partners, family and friends, can apply by filling out an application.
- Once selected, each individual will share their journey, feelings and experiences with an artist who will work in a variety of media to express the individual’s unique story.
- Over a period of about six months, the individual and artist will collaborate virtually to create a unique piece of artwork.
- There is no cost to participate in the program.
Am I eligible to participate?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a U.S. resident
- Are 18 years or older
- Have been diagnosed with SM or have been deeply impacted by SM as a care partner, family or friend
Do I need to participate in person?
It is not required to participate in person.
How much does it cost to participate?
There is no cost to participate in the program.
How much time does it take to participate?
Participation in this program requires you to connect with your partner on at least six occasions, either by phone, email, video call or in person, if and when it is possible and safe to do so.
What else should I know?
- People who participate in this program have no obligation to recommend, order, promote, administer, use or support any Blueprint Medicines product or service.
- This program is subject to certain eligibility criteria. Not all applicants may be selected to participate.
- Artwork will be owned by Blueprint Medicines and will be used to help raise awareness of SM.
Where can I learn more about SM?
Some educational websites include: Allergy & Asthma Network, Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team (FAACT), Global Genes, National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and The Mast Cell Disease Society.
These independent resources are included as a reference only and do not imply endorsement of Blueprint Medicines or its products by the groups listed. Blueprint Medicines is not affiliated with and does not endorse any particular independent advocacy group. We make no guarantees about the accuracy of the information provided on these websites or the quality of support provided.
1. Pardanani A. Am J Hematol. 2023;98(7):1097-1116. | 2. Sperr WR et al. Lancet Haematol. 2019;6(12):e638-e649.
3. Cohen SS et al. Br J Haematol. 2014;166(4):521-8. | 4. Ungerstedt J et al. Cancers. 2022;14(16):3942.
