The Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA) held its annual Symposium in Cleveland, OH, April 26-29, 2018, and it was a truly special weekend for all who attended. HFA announced that they will soon be live with their e-learning portal to continue reaching a broader audience with online bleeding disorder education modules for everyone from first-timers to veterans in the community. In keeping with their mission and vision statements, conference days were structured to sequence education and advocacy with attendees’ personal standing, including their Blood Brotherhood and Blood Sisterhood sessions as well as an all-Spanish speaking track. Additionally, the awards banquet honored champions of the bleeding disorders community who trailblaze and inspire, both within and beyond their ranks. While bleeding disorders continue to be something we live with on a daily basis, the national Symposium—and local BDC events—are a great reminder that education, advocacy, and treatment efforts are constantly improving in remarkable ways. Join HFA next year in sunny San Diego for the 2019 Symposium, April 4th – 6th where they will celebrate the 25th anniversary of HFA! As a reminder VHF has educational scholarships for members to attend national meetings, go here to learn more.
Daniel Warren | VHF Board Member and VA Representative, HFA Board of Directors
