KDKA Pittsburgh
September 21, 2026
Ten-year-old Macy had strep throat many times before without any lasting problems. But this time, within days, everything changed.
Her family watched their outgoing, vibrant daughter suddenly develop tics, regression, OCD symptoms, difficulty eating and significant changes in her ability to function. They went from having a child playing softball and joking with her sister to trying to understand what had happened to her and where to turn for help.
Macy was ultimately diagnosed with PANDAS. Her parents say IVIG helped her return to school, return to softball and, in their words, helped them see their daughter return. Now they are facing another barrier: insurance coverage.
We are grateful to Macy and her family for sharing their story with KDKA/CBS Pittsburgh and helping raise awareness of what PANS/PANDAS can look like, how difficult it can be for families to find appropriate care, and why access to treatment matters.
Their story also highlights important work underway in Pennsylvania. A resolution passed by the Pennsylvania House directs the Joint State Government Commission to study PANS/PANDAS, including policies in other states, to help inform potential future legislation.
And one important clarification to the headline: PANS/PANDAS should not be described as “rare.” The prevalence is unknown, and these conditions remain underdiagnosed.
Thank you to Macy and her family for speaking up and helping other families know they are not alone.
Watch the KDKA/CBS Pittsburgh story
Gabriella True
