Since 1999, Project HOPE, Sanofi-Genzyme, the Egyptian Ministry of Health, and seven children’s hospitals have been working together to improve the health and well-being of those living with Gaucher disease.

We do so by providing essential medicines, health care worker education, and support to families. Together, we are strengthening the system of care so Gaucher patients can receive the highest level of treatment — raising awareness, improving diagnosis, and developing specialized clinical expertise among local medical professionals to do so.

More than two-thirds of program patients have Gaucher type 3. According to the National Gaucher Foundation, the life expectancy of a person with type 3 without treatment is significantly shorter. Even with treatment, life expectancy is 50 years. Through the provision of essential medicines, health care worker education and family support, the Gaucher Initiative has helped usher in substantial improvements in the treatment of patients with Gaucher disease, so that many can now live full, productive lives.

Volunteer with Project HOPE
Project HOPE ensures volunteers are equipped with expectations, detailed scope of work, and regular communication with our local in-country staff and partners prior to their service.

Volunteers from the US are recommended to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) which is a free service to register a trip with the US Embassy or Consulate. The Embassy will send the volunteer communication updates about safety conditions in the country and allow for family and friends to stay in touch with the volunteer in case of an emergency.