How hemophilia drives my husband to be ambitious
Here in the Philippines, obtaining treatment requires money and effort
Navigating life with hemophilia in the Philippines presents unique and daunting challenges.
The financial burden of treatment is one of the most significant hurdles hemophiliacs face. A 1,000-unit vial of factor IX costs up to 22,000 Philippine pesos (about $377), yet the minimum monthly wage is under 12,000 pesos (less than $200). So many people can’t afford treatment. This harsh economic landscape demands an exceptionally high bar of success and ambition for those living with hemophilia.
My husband, Jared, who has severe hemophilia B and a seizure disorder, has often shared his perspective on this issue with me. For him, the minimum benchmark for wealth isn’t just financial stability, but also the ability to purchase and administer regular prophylactic (preventive) doses of factor IX.
This goal is not merely a desire but a necessity that propels him to continually push his boundaries and strive for more. Despite the physical limitations imposed by his hemophilia and epilepsy, the conditions often act as catalysts for Jared’s ambition. They fuel his determination to never settle for “just enough,” but to always aim higher.
Actively working to attain goals
Jared doesn’t just talk about these ambitions; he actively works every day to achieve them. At his job, he consistently overperforms, often going above and beyond to ensure that his contributions are valued and recognized. He understands that in his situation, merely meeting expectations isn’t enough. His performance is a testament to his dedication and the high standards he sets for himself.
Realizing that a single income is insufficient, Jared has also sought alternatives. Whether it’s through freelance work, investing in small business ventures, or exploring other opportunities, he is always on the lookout for ways to bolster his financial position.
In addition to making ends meet, Jared is building a safety net that allows him to manage his health proactively.
Being ambitious is a necessity
While personal efforts are important, systemic changes must occur regarding the larger issue of inadequate hemophilia care. Society needs to acknowledge and address the financial disparities in healthcare access. Advocacy for affordable treatment options, insurance coverage, and government support is vital. Realistically speaking, though, these changes remain a distant dream.
The lack of comprehensive healthcare support and the prohibitive cost of treatment make it clear that relying on external systems alone isn’t viable. Jared’s approach is one of self-reliance and proactive problem-solving, a mindset essential in the current landscape.
In his pursuit of a better life, Jared has also recognized the importance of aligning his mindset and actions with his goals. Recently, he’s realized that it’s far more important to work smart than to work hard, so he tries to exert less physical effort while reaping greater rewards. This shift in perspective is crucial, given the physical demands of his conditions.
Jared’s ambition isn’t just about personal fulfillment; it’s about survival and quality of life. The ability to access necessary treatments without financial strain should be a fundamental right, not an elusive privilege. Yet the current economic reality demands that people like Jared excel in their endeavors. This drive for excellence stems from a place of necessity. It drives Jared to innovate, persevere, and achieve beyond what’s expected of him.
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.
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