My husband, Jared, carries his hemophilia well. At first glance, he appears healthy, with a solid physique, and he actively engages in sports. The keloid scars running down his arms contribute to his rugged charm. Some might dub him a model hemophilia patient, an example to follow. During…
HemoWife - a Column by Allyx Formalejo
As a “HemoWife,” I’ve had the privilege of connecting with numerous people in the hemophilia community. While our shared experiences allow us to create a strong bond, one important topic often remains unspoken: the social and mental maladjustment that some people with hemophilia may face due to…
My husband, Jared, and I have now been married five years! In celebration of our anniversary, I dedicate this letter to him. To my dearest husband (and our daughter’s one and only “bleedy boy“), Five years have passed since the day we made a lifelong commitment to each…
As the carer of my husband, Jared, who has hemophilia B and a seizure disorder, I’ve realized the importance of communication, understanding, and empathy. Focusing on these values helps us mature in our roles while balancing personal challenges, which for me include being a caregiver, mother, and a person…
In a society deeply rooted in patriarchal values, expectations regarding masculinity often dictate men’s roles and behaviors. With its historical background of colonization, the Philippines, where I live, has fostered a set of traditional norms regarding how men must assert dominance, provide for their families, and adhere to…
My husband, Jared, and I were recently captivated by the valedictory of Val Llamelo, the 2023 top graduate of the University of the Philippines. His address garnered widespread attention on social media for its criticism of “inspiration” and the societal issues it masks. These points resonated deeply with…
I recently had the pleasure of watching the “Barbie” movie with my husband and daughter. The experience not only provided us with enjoyable family time, but also left a lasting impact on me. Beyond the vibrant visual effects, comedic gags, and engaging storyline, the movie delivered a profoundly empowering…
The piercing bug has bitten me again! After watching TikTok videos of teens and young adults with unconventional piercings, I decided to get a few more myself: a nose (septum) piercing, a center labret piercing, and a couple more ear piercings. My inner child is elated! My…
I recently watched a video by a feminist content creator that struck a chord with me. She discussed women’s empowerment and the importance of not letting our entire life revolve around our partners. Women like myself, she said, must retain their identity and values and pursue their own career…
Modern psychology often emphasizes the importance of letting go. In a world constantly pushing us to hold on tightly, learning to let go can be surprisingly liberating. As I get older, I’m realizing the significance of discerning what truly matters in life and cutting out the fluff. Our capacity…
