“Don’t let anyone cut into you without talking to your hematologist first.” That’s what my hematologist told me decades ago, and I’ve never forgotten it. It’s advice that may have saved my life more than once. For people living with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, or rare factor…

Organizations such as the Hemophilia Federation of America and the National Hemophilia Foundation provide the bleeding disorder community with a wide array of resources, support, and platforms to connect with others. The National Hemophilia Foundation held its annual meeting recently, and I watched as friends in the…

During the December holiday season, while visiting family in Illinois and Wisconsin, I had an unexpected dental emergency: A crown cracked and fell out. Unfortunately, complications arose when I contracted COVID-19, causing delays in addressing the issue. When I finally managed to schedule an appointment for the crown…

Note: All four U.S.-based columnists for Hemophilia News Today collaborated on this column. While readers may see individual columns on these issues in the days to come, these writers felt it was important to share their collective voice to highlight the impact of recent changes at the U.S. Centers for…

“MacDonald the Older” and I drove down the road that leads to his college. We stopped at a local restaurant, had a good meal, and then attended a concert together. I look forward to times like these when I get to share some laughs with my adult son.

Game shows have experienced a resurgence in recent years, captivating audiences with their blend of entertainment, competition, and nostalgia. I’ve always liked game shows, especially those involving trivia. In “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?,” contestants answer multiple-choice questions; if they’re correct, they advance to the next level, with…

Beyond medical complexities, bleeding disorders illuminate inspiring stories of resilience, courage, and community strength. When we openly share our experiences, we educate others, combat stigma, and promote inclusion. Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month in March is an essential opportunity to highlight the realities faced by those living with hemophilia,…

Dinner with friends is a delightful escape from the daily grind, a precious opportunity to share moments of love and presence. Recently, another couple invited my husband, Joe, and me to dinner at their home here in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The prospect of spending quality time with them and…

Thirteen years ago, when my youngest son, Caeleb, was 7, he suffered a horrible spontaneous internal bleeding episode in his right knee, a complication of hemophilia. His right knee and ankle were target joints, meaning they were susceptible to frequent bleeding. This proved to be one of…