Medical Road Maps Appeal to Visual Learners Like Me
In past columns, I wrote about the benefits of creating a medical road map to keep everyone involved in my son’s hemophilia care on the same page. This collegial approach included data from…
In the Twinkling of an Eye
— Joe MacDonald
Rev. Dr. Joe K. MacDonald is a pastor in the New Mexico Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. He and his wife, Cazandra, live in Belen, New Mexico, along with their youngest son, Caeleb, and two fur babies, Laggie and Hildie. Both of Joe’s sons (the oldest is Julian) have severe hemophilia A, factor VIII deficiency. Julian was diagnosed in 1996 and Caeleb in 2006. Joe serves on the Board of the Sangre de Oro Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation. Joe’s goal is to help his sons and others in the community use their voices to help improve the quality of life for those with bleeding disorders.
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Facing another Thanksgiving in the hospital brings back memories
My wife, Cazandra, had complicated surgery last week that required her to spend some time in the hospital, followed by at least two weeks of inpatient rehabilitation. We were in shock,…
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Sharing My Family’s Journey Reminds Me of a Difficult Past
My youngest son suffered his last joint bleed from hemophilia over seven years ago. Gone are the days when he could not walk, and a wheelchair was the most accessible way for him…
Summer Brings New Adventures for the MacDonald Men
This summer brings a tinge of melancholy as the Sangre de Oro Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation has announced that its usual weeklong summer camp will not meet in person. While…
How We Can Advocate for Our Blood Brothers and Sisters in Need
Recently, I preached a sermon that focused on advocacy. The basis of the message came from the Gospel of Mark 6:53-56. In the Scripture passage, people carried their friends and loved ones on…
To My Mother: Thank You for Teaching Me Everything I Know
I learned how to be a caregiver from my mother. Ruby Jane loved my children with complete devotion. While I made her a grandmother, she made me the man I am today.
When the Seas of Chronic Illness Appear Calm
Hemlibra (emicizumab-kxwh) has been a wonder medicine for many hemophilia patients, including my youngest son. Among the benefits that he receives is a respite from internal bleeds. He now infuses every other…
Caring for My Grandfather Helped Teach Me How to Raise My Sons
When I was young, I learned how to be a caregiver for my grandfather. My mother, sister, and I lived with my grandparents for longer than I can remember. I had an incredibly unique…
An Overwhelming Turn of Events Brings Fear for My Son’s Future
The last time my youngest son spent the night in a hospital due to a breakthrough bleeding episode was in February 2014. As years passed, his health continued to improve, and life…
Preparing My Son to Make an Important Healthcare Decision
In two months, my oldest son turns 25. After the initial shock that he is reaching a milestone birthday, I realized that next year proves crucial in terms of insurance. I currently cover him…
In Times of Struggle, I Remember That Hope Is More Than a 4-letter Word
As a caregiver, hope exists in practically my every waking thought. I wish for things to improve regarding my loved ones’ treatment. Hope keeps me going so that I may provide the best care…
Spring Has Often Been a Time of New Beginnings in Our Family
This time of year reminds me of hope and the promise of new beginnings. In the spring of 2014, when my son “MacDonald the Younger” was 8, his life drastically changed. Along with our…
Easter Is a Reminder That We Must Face Darkness Before Light
I cannot believe that Easter is a few days away. I keep asking myself, “Didn’t we celebrate New Year’s Day yesterday?” One of the common themes interwoven into the fabric of what Christians call…
