The Forgotten Factor - a Column by G Shellye Horowitz

I am writing to you on behalf of all the women with a hemophilia mutation. My blood sisters have varying medical diagnoses: asymptomatic carrier, symptomatic carrier, mild hemophilia, moderate hemophilia, and even severe hemophilia. Their diagnosis is often linked to the philosophies of their hematologist or hemophilia treatment center.

Getting diagnosed with hemophilia is a whirlwind. It doesn’t matter if someone is diagnosed at birth or in their 40s: Their world is turned upside down. It is terrifying. Life is changed forever. I feel Father Anthony DeMello put it best in his…

I grew up believing that it was impossible for a hemophilia carrier who was also a woman to manifest the condition. I had stitches five times before the age of 5. I limped through elementary school, in pain from physical education classes. I…

Four years ago, I relocated to a rural community. My hemophilia treatment center (HTC) was six hours away, so I met with a local hematologist to come up with a plan for treatment. I am a woman. I was speaking to a female physician who specialized…

Intimacy. Warmth. Comfort. Security. Closeness. These are things that many of us yearn for in relationships. However, when someone has a bleeding disorder, relationships can also be associated with other things, like fear, pain, embarrassment, and shame. Sexuality is hard to discuss,…

I got home from work and checked my mail. I had received another notice from an “impartial third party” stating: Dear Ms. Horowitz, We have received an inquiry from your insurance company and we have determined your treatment is medically necessary. You are…

One of the challenges for individuals with hemophilia — whether severe, moderate, or mild — is bleeds. Often people with hemophilia will struggle with bleeds into their joints. The bleeds are painful and limit mobility. If left untreated, they can cause long-term damage, such as arthritis.

When you look at me, you’ll see a quirky, colorful, loud, and active person, yet at the same time, I am reserved. I am of average height and weight, and am known as a hiker, a cyclist, and (for very short stints) a beach jogger. I smile a…

Dear pharmaceutical companies,  I am speaking to every one of you who makes a factor replacement product for hemophilia.  Thank you for developing more options and safer products for our community. Because of your research, we have products that greatly improve our lives. We…

Patrice Thomas has utilized her skills as a women’s healthcare advocate to learn about marginalized communities and support structural change. Through her current position at the Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan (HFM), Patrice is bringing together women with hemophilia and healthcare providers to educate and break down barriers…