In kindergarten, my teacher had a daily ritual: story time. My friends and I would race to the corner and sit “crisscross applesauce” on the boldly colored carpet, eagerly awaiting the story. Next to recess, it was the best part of the day. The teacher read with excitement, allowing us…
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.
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My son Caeleb recently had his wisdom teeth removed. Caeleb has severe hemophilia A with an inhibitor, but hemophilia hasn’t been the main focus in his life for years. Nevertheless, before the surgery, he called the hemophilia treatment center (HTC) to ask about what steps to…
The kitchen buzzed with energy. Cookies were in the oven, a skillet of deliciousness simmered on the stove, and fresh tortillas were being rolled out on the counter. When my oldest son, Julian, and I cook together, we’re like Fred and Ginger, knowing each step and anticipating…
Helping people brings me joy. As a hospice chaplain assisting families through their darkest hours, I am truly fulfilled. Outside of my work, my heart is full when I can make dinner, pick up groceries, or visit a friend. But asking for help is an entirely different thing. During my…
Several years ago, I spoke at a great bleeding disorders conference in California. Around 300 people attended, and we all had wonderful interactions. The attendees engaged with one another and found hope in their shared experiences. I left the conference energized and proud to be part of such a…
My family recently moved to Las Cruces, New Mexico. Boxes, packing paper, and tape have been a constant over the past few months. I’m grateful that my husband and sons are experienced movers. We all have a system, a rhythm to packing that we don’t even discuss. I pack…
The summer months bring relentless heat. In the desert of New Mexico, where we live, the thermometer often hits triple digits. While some people love the heat, others tolerate it, seeking shelter in the shade of a tree or in an air-conditioned area. Staying cool isn’t just a…
At 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, my television is faithfully tuned to “Jeopardy!” The theme song and sounds of the buzzers usher in a comforting ritual each night that’s part of my home. “Jeopardy!” is a long-running quiz show where contestants are given the answers and must respond with a…
My family gathered to take pictures. We drove to the Bosque, the cottonwood forest that borders the Rio Grande and runs through New Mexico. It’s a beautiful place with running water and trees. The photographer took numerous action shots, one of which brought a reality check. The photographer had us…
My household is navigating a season of major change. As the family of a frequently relocating pastor, we’ve honed our adaptability, mastering the rhythm of moving with grace and resilience. This summer we’ll exhibit that adaptability again as my husband moves to a new appointment in Las Cruces, New…
In 2000, actor Tom Hanks starred in the movie “Cast Away.” His character, Chuck Noland, traveled the world as a systems analyst for FedEx, and his plane crashed in the South Pacific. He was on a deserted island, and his only connections with the world were the FedEx…
I recently hosted a retreat for United Methodist deacons from New Mexico and Arizona, where we gathered to share our ministries, develop new relationships, and connect. Deacons are called to serve beyond the church walls, and I’m always amazed at the work we do in the world. At the retreat,…
As I transition to a new job in a new city, I’m meeting new colleagues at work. In these early days of getting to know everyone, I share only what I’m asked. I’ll share more of my story in time, especially since joining a team requires trust and acceptance, but…
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