I feel so glad to join this community. I'm 34 and after at least ten years of spleen and liver pain, depression, and thick blood/circulatory problems - I finally know why! My doctor asked me after a routine blood test two years ago was there anyone in my family with Thalassemia? I replied, I've only ever known my mother, and her blood is fine. However, as I'm told by her that my father is French I strongly suspect I've inherited the trait from his line. The doctor reassured me that according to my blood work I was only a carrier of Thal trait and not to be concerned. I know now that even Thal Minors can suffer more than mild anemia. In the New Year I'm going to insist on having the actual Thalassemia test. I'm very curious to know if I have the Alpha or Beta version. I guess no-one ever suspected I might have Thalassemia as I look very typically Anglo-Saxon (dark-blonde hair, dark blue eyes, fair skin).