Passing the baton to a new team in my son’s hemophilia care
Making the big transition from pediatric to adult care — and more independence
The Summer Olympics are around the corner. Gymnasts there will soar through the air with grace and precision, showcasing incredible feats of strength and flexibility. Athletes will push their limits, running at record speeds, demonstrating the peak of human endurance. Divers will climb to dizzying heights, performing acrobatic feats as they somersault and twist before slicing into the water’s depths.
Each event is a testament to years of dedication, training, and perseverance. Spectators are privileged to watch these tremendous athletes participate in the most important competition of their lives, where dreams are realized and history is made.
While I enjoy watching all of the events, I’m fascinated by the relay races. There’s something uniquely thrilling about the teamwork and precision required.
A runner starts the race holding a baton. The starter pistol fires, and the race begins. The next teammate steps into another starting block and waits eagerly. As the runners meet, the baton is passed, and the race continues. The runners are focused on their pace and speed and must have smooth transitions from one leg of the race to the next. Their coordination and trust are what make relay races so captivating.
Transitioning into adulthood
The concept of passing the baton resonates deeply with me, mainly as I reflect on a recent milestone in my family’s life. My youngest son, Caeleb, 18, lives with severe hemophilia with an inhibitor. His recent appointment at the hemophilia treatment center was significant because it was his last visit with a pediatric hematologist. It was the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
My family has grown close to Caeleb’s hematologist over the years. She’s been not only a doctor, but also a guardian and advocate, always keeping Caeleb’s best interests at the forefront of every decision. From hemophilia being at the center of our lives early on to Caeleb switching to a life-changing treatment, his hematologist took time and care with the complications he’s endured. She’s seen Caeleb through the worst of the worst, and her unwavering support and expertise have improved my son’s quality of life.
But now it’s time to pass the baton.
As Caeleb transitions to an adult care team, we trust the new medical providers will continue the race with the same commitment and expertise. This change marks a significant milestone in Caeleb’s journey toward independence and adulthood. Just as a relay team relies on each runner to perform their best, we rely on this new team to support Caeleb with the same level of care and understanding.
This transition brings a mix of emotions: gratitude for the care my son has received, anxiety about the unknown, and hope for the future. Through it all, we confidently move forward.
This change is a huge step for Caeleb as he prepares to start college this fall. He’s gaining independence and learning to trust his decisions. I’m excited for my son. The baton has been passed and our journey continues, propelled by the strength, wisdom, and resilience we’ve encountered along the way.
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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