National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day

DRESS syndrome, or drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, is a rare and serious reaction to certain medicines.

It begins slowly, usually between two and six weeks after starting a drug. Fever and rash often emerge first.

Swelling in the face and abnormal blood counts follow. Then, internal organs like the liver, kidneys, lungs, heart, or thyroid can be affected. This delayed response makes it hard to connect symptoms to the medicine.

Over fifty drugs, such as some antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can trigger it. Treatment usually calls for stopping the medication and close medical care. The condition carries a mortality risk of around one to seven percent.

People observe National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day each year to raise public and medical awareness. It brings patients, families, healthcare providers, and researchers together.

The goal is to help people get help more quickly and safely.

How to Celebrate National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day

Here are some thoughtful and creative ways people can take part in National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day. These ideas help spread awareness while connecting communities and encouraging learning.

Share Stories Online

Talk about real experiences. Post short videos, photos, or quotes from those affected. Keep it personal and honest.

A true account can reach far more people than medical facts alone. Use hashtags to keep posts grouped and easy to find.

Host a Local Talk

Plan a short talk at a community center or library. Invite a nurse, doctor, or survivor to speak. Offer light refreshments. Keep the tone friendly and welcoming.

A relaxed setting can spark more questions and better understanding.

Start a Fundraiser

Create a simple campaign for research groups working on this condition. Sell baked goods, crafts, or hold a garage sale.

Even small donations add up fast. Make sure to explain where the money goes. People give more when they know the purpose.

Hand Out Flyers

Print a few quick facts and warning signs. Pass them out at a local park or store. Ask a local business to keep a stack at the counter.

Keep the layout clear and the language plain. Most people will only glance once—make it count.

Wear Support Colors

Dress in colors linked to the cause. Bright, bold shades draw attention. Add a pin or ribbon with a clear message.

Friends might ask why you’re dressed that way—take the chance to share something useful. Small gestures can lead to big talks.

History of National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day

National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day began in 2021. The DRESS Syndrome Foundation started it to raise awareness and support families.

Two mothers—Shelley Gendelman and Carrie Kansky—founded the group in 2019 after losing their daughters, Isabel and Hannah, to this rare reaction.

Their goal was to help others avoid the pain they experienced. They wanted people to understand the signs and act quickly.

The day takes place every July. It brings together doctors, survivors, researchers, and families. Many share stories, teach warning signs, and talk about safe drug use.

Events often include talks, fundraisers, and social media campaigns. These activities help people feel less alone and more informed.

The organizers also push for better research. D.R.E.S.S. is hard to spot, so raising awareness saves lives. Over time, the day has grown.

More people now know about this delayed drug reaction. Groups around the world have started to join in.

What began with grief turned into something powerful. Now, National D.R.E.S.S. Syndrome Day gives hope, spreads knowledge, and helps families stay alert.

It connects those touched by the condition and supports the push for faster diagnosis and better care.