I just read that the month of September is a symbol for refocusing our energies. This refocus makes sense as we say goodbye to the last days of summer and welcome the first days of fall: both with school starting and the weather getting cooler. Different for this year is that COVID-19 continues to impact our lives and will for some time. This unprecedented period has moved us at VHF and as a community to be flexible and creative, and to explore new ways of connecting and supporting each other.
I hope you have been able to join us for some of our virtual programming over the spring and summer! If you haven’t gotten a chance to yet, we hope you will make plans to join us before the end of the year. Our programs are both a great opportunity to get education (often from speakers that we couldn’t get if we were in person), as well as see old and new friends. As we continue to practice social/physical distancing it is more important than ever to feel the support and strength of your bleeding disorders community. We are here! We are in this together! We miss you! Please form a Unite for Bleeding Disorders Walk team, participate in one of our virtual programs, and/or send us an email and let us know how you are doing.
I am looking forward to the day when we can safely reconvene, but until then, VHF is here for you! Our presence and support may look bit different, but we will continue to serve you through education, advocacy, financial assistance, and building a sense of community.
Kelly Waters, LCSW, MSW | Executive Director, Virginia Hemophilia Foundation
