Columns

Two common themes that appear in my columns are conflict and reconciliation. Once a problem has been resolved and I can reflect on it, I look for insights about how to face the struggles of living with hemophilia. Taking the time to do this has resulted in a change in…

I grew up outside the city limits of Houston. My childhood was idyllic. I am one of the few who say my high school years were some of the best of my life. When I went to college, I attended a university on the other side of town. I…

First in a series.  Treatment for people living with hemophilia has long meant a lifetime of infusions, careful planning, and constant vigilance. But new therapies are rewriting what’s possible, particularly gene therapy. Domenic Catrine is a charismatic 21-year-old who lives with severe hemophilia B. A junior in college…

Last Friday, I went about my day as usual. It’s one of my days off, and I was looking forward to some free time. As I made plans for the weekend, my phone started ringing. I looked at the screen and saw my youngest son Caeleb’s face. I smiled because…

It’s been almost 30 years since I first discovered the joy of pregnancy. I can still recall my excitement as I left the doctor’s office, clutching the positive test in my hand. I was eager to surprise my husband, Joe, who was teaching high school choir. I called his…

Artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare? You’ve got to be kidding me! What a ridiculous idea! That sounds horrifying. We don’t want computers diagnosing us; we want trained, experienced professionals who can think for themselves. As someone with hemophilia, I felt this way. Strongly. Until last week. As I’ve mentioned…

Some days, my husband, Jared, who has severe hemophilia B, is unstoppable. He’ll haul a heavy plant pot across the living room, rearrange furniture, or even knock out a workout that would leave me sore for days. On other days, he’s down for the count; there’s no negotiating with…

Last week, I drove two hours to my hemophilia treatment center (HTC) in Tampa, Florida — not just to see my hematologist or get my labs done, but to meet with the physical therapist. The distance was long, but the trip was worth it. My knees have always been…

When I reflect on the unexpected detours my life took when my wife, Cazandra, and I had children, I cannot help but feel gratitude for them. They led me to where I am now. The author and teacher Joseph Campbell once wrote: “We must be willing to…

Dinner with friends is a delightful escape from the daily grind, a precious opportunity to share moments of love and presence. Recently, another couple invited my husband, Joe, and me to dinner at their home here in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The prospect of spending quality time with them and…