Tory Gilliam | VHF Board Secretary and 50th Anniversary Committee Member
On Sunday, March 16, 2025, we gathered at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation, and what a celebration it was! As both a Board Member & member of the 50th Anniversary Committee, I was proud of what we were able to achieve with this celebration, honoring the past, present & future of VHF and our community.
The day started with networking and a wonderful brunch spread, giving people time to catch-up, chat with exhibitors or enjoy the photobooth & caricature artist. During this time, I found myself drawn to the archives (expertly researched and assembled by Heather), which were an amazing look into the history of VHF. Between the articles, proclamations & photos gathered, it was really a time capsule of how far the organization has come.
Moving into the program portion of the day, I was so moved to hear from all the panelists and presenters, who shared their stories of how VHF has impacted their lives & their family’s lives. Over the years, I’ve seen it firsthand through programs & events. But hearing it from some of the organization’s founders who have lived through so much as it relates to the bleeding disorders community was so inspiring.
I’d like to thank the 50th Anniversary Committee for their ideas & collaboration. It was truly a team effort that was rooted in our community, and it showed in the celebration. Additionally, a tremendous kudos to our intrepid VHF staff, Kelly & Heather, who guide the organization so expertly and without whom none of this would have been possible. I look forward to another fantastic 50 years of VHF!
