Columns

Dreams of a Better Future

My husband, Jared, and I are at a point in our lives where our careers have taken on greater significance. It seems like just yesterday when we were college students eager to graduate and experience life, curious about the mysteries that the future might hold. We were figuring out our…

Clap After Every Pirouette

When my daughter was little, she had the most amazing dance teacher, Jenna. Jenna was a mom of boys who loved the rough and tumble, but her dance studio was all about learning to move young bodies with grace and fluidity. While we no longer head off to Jenna’s classes…

Performing My First Self-infusion Was Empowering

With so many injuries lately, possibly because of a lack of exercise, I found it necessary to finally learn the ropes of self-infusion. Self-infusion of critical factor is important for me to prevent and treat bleeding episodes. As much as I have wanted to learn the craft, I…

A New Journey: My Son’s Chronic Pain

For the longest time, my son Caeleb being in a wheelchair was just part of the normal workings in my home. The constant bleeds that kept him immobile were in the forefront of my thoughts as I watched him struggle to get around. But after five years without bleeds,…

Here’s a Thumbs-up to Taking Back Control

You don’t have to look far to find people who are afraid of needles. There is something to be said about sharp, pointy things digging into your flesh. The process is not fun, and we endure it knowing that the medicine will fulfill its purpose. We hope to feel better…

Sharing Stories Comes with Responsibility

I attended the Hope for Hemophilia conference last weekend and met some wonderful people. I delivered a keynote address and shared my story of raising sons with hemophilia and holding on to hope. It was a special experience and I am grateful for the opportunity. The day after…

I’m Bleeding, Believe Me

I recently attended a national conference for women with hemophilia. Common themes emerged as I listened to women’s stories of life with bleeding disorders. The number of women dismissed by top medical professionals working for hemophilia treatment centers (HTCs) was alarming. I wondered why this is happening. Dominant…