Sept. 18 is ‘Unite Day’ for Bleeding Disorders Community
Bleeding disorder patients and their supporters are encouraged to participate on Sept. 18 in Unite Day, a national virtual event aimed at celebrating the community and underscoring the need for treatment for all.
Unite Day complements participation in the annual Unite for Bleeding Disorders Walk, both presented by the National Hemophilia Foundation. The overarching goals are to raise funds and awareness, and to showcase the community’s strength and unity.
In previous years, community members participated in Unite Day through their local chapter’s walk. This year, however, participants nationwide are being asked to come together virtually to appreciate life and the prospect of a healthier future. Those interested in fundraising for Unite Day can go here to register and find a local walk.
“From challenge we will rise and create a world where treatment is available for all, and education and support are at the core of how we care,” the foundation stated on a webpage dedicated to the event.
The Unite Day and the virtual event hub is where supporters can search for their local chapter’s Unite Day events and activities to mark collective progress and to connect with other members of the bleeding disorders community. A list of all available local chapters is available here.
Supporters are not required to participate in a Unite Walk, which will take place in more than 40 cities across the nation, with more than 3,500 walkers expected. Because most walks will be virtual this year, chapters are hosting events through the website. These activities will dovetail with special events the foundation is hosting.
“We encourage you to participate in a local walk. However, your presence and participation in Unite Day’s national celebration is enthusiastically requested regardless,” the foundation stated.
The bleeding disorders community includes more than three million U.S. residents who are living with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and other rare bleeding conditions. Such disorders prevent the blood from clotting normally, causing patients to experience prolonged bleeding following an injury, surgery, or even spontaneously.
The National Hemophilia Foundation works to find better therapies, as well as cures for inheritable bleeding disorders, and to prevent disorder complications through education, advocacy, and research.
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