Lessons I Learned from My Son’s Diagnosis
Twenty-three years ago, my life changed dramatically. I became a mom. My firstborn, Julian, entered the world screaming at the top of his lungs with a head full of crazy black hair. I imagined…
Hemophilia 24/7
— Cazandra Campos-MacDonald
Rev. Cazandra Campos-MacDonald is a pastor, author, motivational speaker, and encourager. She lives in New Mexico with her husband, Rev. Dr. Joe MacDonald, and youngest son, Caeleb. Their adult son, Julian, is living the bohemian life of a starving artist and goes wherever there is an audition. Her sons live with severe hemophilia A and inhibitors. Her older brother died shortly after birth due to complications from hemophilia. Cazandra writes candidly of raising two sons with a rare bleeding disorder. She believes storytelling is about redeeming the journey and connecting with others.
Featured Post
We must avoid being complacent with hemophilia treatment
The start of a new year often brings a surge of enthusiasm, hope, and resolutions. We might set ambitious goals like, “This is the year I lose weight.” Or, “This is the year I…
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Children Are Different, and So Are Their Experiences with Hemophilia
Most people will tell you that their children are opposites. One is outgoing, the other would rather be left alone. One will talk until your head hurts, the other will utter only a few…
Summer Camp Success: Time with Fellow Warriors Fosters Independence
I am a believer in the benefits of summer camp — hemophilia camp to be specific. Children with bleeding disorders across the U.S. have the opportunity to spend time away from home and…
With a New Treatment, It’s Time to Reorganize Our Routines
When my youngest son needed daily infusions, keeping up with factor and supplies was not difficult. There was never any question as to when an infusion would take place, and ordering what was needed…
Recognizing the Signs of Depression During Mental Health Month
May is a busy month — with end of school year parties and graduations, the time flies as summer begins. This month is significant for another reason: May is Mental Health Month. It…
This Graduation Season, Take Stock of Your Achievements
The month of May can be an emotional roller coaster for many. Social media fills up with parents bragging about their children’s latest accomplishments — honor society, college acceptance letters, awards, and recognitions…
New Treatments Mean Summer Camps Can Focus on Fun
Summer is upon us. Our kids have big plans: sleeping in, watching television, playing video games, sleepovers, vacations, and summer camp. From church camp to athletic and band camp, the summer is filled with…
This Mother’s Day, I Give Thanks for My Family’s Health
Mother’s Day is this Sunday. The day dedicated to honoring mothers began in the early 1900s. It’s a special time of joy and celebration, with families going out for lunch and mothers receiving…
Taking Time to Reflect on Stories of Courage
I find myself stranded today. I had traveled from Texas to Denver for a week of classes before jetting off to Vermont for a speaking engagement. Before my arrival in Vermont, my return…
The Throat Swab that Proved Waning Tolerance
My youngest son Caeleb suffers from seasonal allergies. He gets severe headaches, congestion, a runny nose, watery eyes — it’s not fun. One of the telltale signs that he is genuinely sick is when…
My Son’s Beads of Courage Made a Difference in Our Lives
The other day, I ran across a tiny, plastic bag that contained a blue bead representing a clinic visit. My son Caeleb was part of the Beads of Courage program at the…
My Son Learns Why It’s Critical to Rely on Others
My adult son is 22 and living at home. He will be moving to a neighboring city next month and will go back to college in the fall. He was recently hired…
