In 1999, Camp Youngblood was officially born — a week-long overnight camp designed specifically for children with inherited bleeding disorders, their siblings, and children of parents with bleeding disorders. In 2007, Camp Youngblood found its permanent home at Camp Holiday Trails (CHT) in Charlottesville, VA, a nonprofit, year-round camp nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains that supports children and teens with medical challenges.
The earliest mention of Camp Youngblood in our newsletters appears in the September/October 2000 issue of Facts N’ Factors. However, our community’s connection to CHT began well before Camp Youngblood had its own dedicated week at CHT. Children with bleeding disorders were already attending summer sessions at CHT, finding connection and joy in its supportive environment. A 1991 issue of UVA’s LOKI Magazine features a heartfelt article about Camp Holiday Trails written by Eric Howell — a former camper, UVA student, and dedicated VHF member. According to his obituary, Eric also served as the 1976 poster child for the Virginia Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation (Virginia Hemophilia Foundation’s original name) a testament to his impact on the community.
