How We Can Advocate for Our Blood Brothers and Sisters in Need

Recently, I preached a sermon that focused on advocacy. The basis of the message came from the Gospel of Mark 6:53-56. In the Scripture passage, people carried their friends and loved ones on mats to Jesus’ feet so that those who suffered from illnesses could touch his garment and discover wholeness.

While I think this passage is a strong testament of faith, the advocate in me questioned the text. I wondered about those struggling with illness who don’t have someone to carry them to Jesus’ feet. What happened to them? Were they not healed? Indeed, the Messiah showed compassion to those who could not advocate for themselves.

I think of my blood brothers and sisters in the hemophilia community who struggle and have no one to show them how to maneuver through the chaos of insurance or teach them the hows and whys of maintaining good care. What about the least of these?

I believe that we have to bring the voice of hope into the lives of those who cannot speak for themselves. We must bring awareness to their struggles, for they are part of our family. We are joined together as members of humanity.

One of my greatest joys is witnessing how quality of life changes when the community agrees to “carry the mat” for everyone who struggles. When we stand together, advocating for one another, incredible things begin to happen. We bring awareness to those who suffer, we unite for the common good of our society, and we also acknowledge the importance of maintaining our connectedness as we traverse the needs of those who cannot speak for themselves.

Today, I remember the members of my community and give thanks to the mighty advocates who constantly “carry the mats” for others. They are fierce and loyal to their commitment to initiating change. They are a work of art, as they help to create a path illuminated by hope.

I celebrate my fellow blood brothers and sisters. They promote educational opportunities so that our loved ones may realize that a whole family stands behind them as they face struggles brought on by hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.

We carry the mat by reassuring our loved ones that we serve as living testimonies to their lives. Our loved ones find the strength to face each trial because we provide hope when faced with difficulties. We also celebrate overcoming adversity. We show up to remind them that their lives matter. Loneliness and despair are not valid options because our presence speaks into the bleakest of circumstances.

I proudly call myself an advocate for those who suffer. I gladly take up the mat of those who struggle. Through my actions, I hope to ease the burdens that others carry, constantly reminding them that they must never give up hope.

I must remind my fellow blood brothers and sisters that the spark of light and love finds itself at home in their souls and that there is a world that needs their gifts. Their contributions help promote the understanding that the greatest of all gifts is love. Let us commit to being advocates to those who need to find a way to the pool of wholeness.

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Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.