It is with great sadness that we share the news that AlphaNet Coordinator Kathie Sivesind passed away on July 17, 2025. Kathie was a beloved AlphaNet Coordinator and dedicated more than two decades of her life to helping individuals with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1). Kathie resided on Camano Island, Washington, with her husband, Bill, and was a mother of two and grandmother to five.
“Kathie was such a continuous inspirational presence within AlphaNet throughout the decades she worked with us. I know the Coordinators never hesitated to turn to her for help and advice, her Alphas loved her, and, on top of that, she took on the travel planning for several studies AlphaNet has assisted in. I will really miss her presence,” AlphaNet Vice President and Senior Medical Director, Dr. Robert Sandhaus said.
Kathie was diagnosed with Alpha-1 in 1992 after experiencing unexplained shortness of breath, which initially resulted in an asthma diagnosis. Upon receiving the asthma diagnosis, Kathie sought treatment from an allergist who ran an Alpha-1 blood test and confirmed she had Alpha-1.
Kathie started working at AlphaNet in 2002 and, for more than 10 years, served as the Coordinator who was responsible for providing health management to AlphaNet’s 60+ Coordinators. As a result of this role, Kathie shared a special bond with her fellow AlphaNet Coordinators. In addition to her Coordinator work, Kathie also managed the travel arrangements for Alphas enrolled in several Alpha-1 clinical trials.
Prior to joining AlphaNet, Kathie worked for over 20 years in the medical insurance field. For many years, she was also involved in the Seattle-area Alpha-1 Foundation support group, a testament to her passion for community, education, and advocacy.
“Kathie was a dedicated Alpha, always helping her subscribers as an AlphaNet Coordinator, but also helping Alphas get connected to the many programs provided by the Alpha-1 Foundation. She made sure Alphas knew about local support groups, the Peer Guide program, and the A1F Clinical Resource Centers. She projected calmness, reassurance, and positivity to every person she encountered. She will be missed by all,” said Cathey Henderson, Director of Patient Services.
Outside of her professional life, Kathie enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family at her home. She also enjoyed boating and golfing.
Her legacy at AlphaNet is defined not only by her dedication to the Alpha-1 community but also by her warmth, empathy, and commitment to improving the lives of those living with Alpha-1.
