How the Olympics can empower women with bleeding disorders
Like the Olympians, we need to support and encourage one another
The 2024 Paris Olympics have been a mesmerizing spectacle of human achievement and have captivated my attention for more hours than I care to admit. Sacrificing sleep to witness the gymnastics finals live was a decision I’ll never regret. The countdown to the end of the Olympics is already painful. How will I fill my evenings? Who would have thought the equestrian competition and skateboarding could be so addictive?
Beyond the shiny medals and broken records, the Olympics have unveiled a profound tapestry of human strength and resilience.
Watching women’s gymnastics has been a revelation. Their unwavering support for one another, even in the face of fierce competition, is a testament to the power of sisterhood.
Simone Biles, the undeniable GOAT (greatest of all time), has shown us that true leadership is about lifting others up. Her mentorship of fellow gymnasts Jordan Chiles and Rebeca Andrade is a shining example of how one person can change another’s life. Both Chiles and Andrade admitted to considering retirement at some point, but credited Biles with inspiring them to persevere.
Women supporting women
These inspiring stories got me thinking about the women in our bleeding disorders community. Like these elite athletes, we face unique challenges and obstacles. We often feel isolated and misunderstood, as if our experiences were invisible.
It’s time to change that narrative. Let’s embrace the diversity of our experiences. Bleeding disorders are complex, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you have a strong family history of hemophilia yet are struggling to obtain a diagnosis, or you have fluctuating factor levels, your story is valid and deserves to be heard.
We also need to foster a culture of support and encouragement. I’ve been there — feeling lost and alone, questioning my own sanity. It’s essential to have a community where we can share our struggles and celebrate our triumphs.
A referral network could be a game changer for those navigating the often-confusing diagnostic process or for families with young children who were recently diagnosed. Imagine being connected with someone who’s been through similar challenges or has a similar bleeding disorder. And let’s not forget the countless women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding and anemia, dismissed by healthcare providers. They deserve answers and proper care.
As the Olympics draw to a close, let’s carry the spirit of these incredible athletes into our own lives. Let’s support each other, lift each other up, and demand the recognition and resources we deserve. Together, we can create a world where women with bleeding disorders thrive.
Your voice matters. Share your story, connect with others, and advocate for change. Let’s create a stronger, more supportive community for women with bleeding disorders.
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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