August is here - and we’ve got a newsletter packed with heart, history, and hope. From powerful stories and policy updates to summer highlights and fall plans, there's something for everyone in the VHF community. Let’s make the most of this month - together. |
Advocacy Roundup: Summer 2025 |
Stay informed and take action! Explore key advocacy updates and resources from across the bleeding disorders community: |
Celebrating 50 Years: “Eric: He Lives With Hemophilia” |
In honor of our 50th anniversary, we’re revisiting stories that shaped our chapter. Eric Howell, once a VHF spokeschild, and his parents, among our original members, reflect the strength and spirit of those who came before us.
“Eric: He Lives With Hemophilia” by Tina Jeffrey is from the Daily Press (Newport News, Virginia), October 26, 1975. Go here to view the article.
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The Not Quite Right: Understanding The Challenges Of A Mild Bleeding Disorder |
by Krista Davidson, VHF Community Member, Advocate, and Board Member
Do you ever have that feeling that something is not quite right, but you just can’t put your finger on what exactly feels off? My family is affected by mild hemophilia A. Lately, I’ve been thinking more about the challenges (past, present, and future) we face living with a mild disorder. |
Ask The Nurse: Navigating Procedures Safely With A Bleeding Disorder |
by Jenna Richard, Senior RN, Central Virginia Center for Coagulation Disorders at VCU School of Medicine
Q: I am scheduled for dental work soon and have a bleeding disorder. What do I need to know to stay safe during procedures like this or others that might cause bleeding?
A: Planning ahead is the most important step. Whether it is dental surgery, a biopsy, a joint injection, an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, or another invasive procedure, letting your care team know early helps us keep you safe. |
VHF is proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of our amazing community. Share your photos and stories with us, and help shine a light on the moments that matter most. Email heather@vahemophilia.org to be included. |
Celebrating Community Member Iyneshia Wilson |
Iyneshia recently graduated from ECPI University – Culinary Institute of Virginia with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts. But she’s not stopping there—she’s planning to pursue a Bachelor's degree in both Pastry & Baking and Nutrition. Her big dream? To open and run her very own local restaurant. |
Celebrating The 2025 Lyman Fisher Scholarship Recipients |
VHF is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Lyman Fisher Scholarship. Congratulations to this year’s outstanding winners: Aaron Bunn, Cody Davidson, Kiera Davidson, Matthew Lee, Riley Moore-Steen, and Jackson Spasojevich. These remarkable students represent the future of our community through their leadership and dedication to making a difference. Click here to read more about their stories and achievements!
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Welcoming New Leaders And Honoring Dedicated Service On VHF’s Board Of Directors |
VHF is thrilled to welcome two new members to our Board of Directors: Katherine “Kathy” Mortimer and Krista Davidson. Their experience and connection to the bleeding disorders community will be invaluable in guiding VHF’s mission. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Tory Gilliam and Carla Boucher as they complete their terms of service. Their leadership and support have made a lasting impact on our community. Go here to read more about these individuals and their contributions.
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VHF Educational Event: Building Healthier Futures - One Swing At A Time! |
Camp Youngblood 2025: A Week of Growth, Grit, And Golden Moments |
Each summer, Camp Youngblood reminds us why our community is so strong. Held at Camp Holiday Trails from July 13–18 and made possible through the partnership between VHF and the Hemophilia Association of the Capital Area (HACA), this year’s camp brought nearly 40 young people from the inherited bleeding disorders community together for a week filled with connection, new friendships, greater independence and moments they will never forget.
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Educational Dinner “Adversity, Strength, And Resilience” |
Medical Symposium At Great Wolf Lodge |
September 12–14, 2025
Join us for the VHF Medical Symposium at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg—a weekend of education, connection, and fun for the bleeding disorders community. Enjoy sessions on treatment options, on-site childcare, Leading Edge teen program, waterpark access, meals, and lodging—all included (with a $50 household registration fee for eligible VHF constituents).
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Fall Community Event At Blue Ridge Mountain Maze |
Saturday, October 18th at 12:00 pm
A day of fresh air, fall fun, education, and community connection at the Blue Ridge Mountain Maze. This event is perfect for all ages. Explore the Farmy Fun Zone and enjoy the country store with cider donuts, home made ice-cream, and more - plus time together in a private group area in the middle of the fun with easy access to the Farmy Fun Zone – all in a beautiful mountain setting. |
Latest Updates And Resources For The Bleeding Disorders Community |
Resources - Articles and Links
Surveys -
Help shape the future of care for von Willebrand disease by taking the 25-minute anonymous PIVOT-vWD survey from DHT.health—open to U.S. adults with vWD or caregivers of children with vWD; participants will receive a $10 Amazon gift card—take the survey here.
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WFH Dental Committee invites patients with inherited bleeding disorders to participate in an anonymous global survey on access to routine dental care and the potential impact of COVID-19, go here to complete the survey.
National Conferences – Upcoming Opportunities -
CHES InhibitCon West in Portland, OR, October 3–5, 2025 For the inhibitor community – covering treatment updates, insurance changes, mental health, venous access, pain management, and more.
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CHES One Drop Rare Bleeding Disorder Consortium in Tampa Fl, November 14–16, 2025 For individuals and families living with ultra-rare factor or platelet deficiencies (FId, FIId, FVd, FVIId, FXd, FXId, FXIII, Glanzmann’s, etc.).
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HFM National Conference for Women and Teens with Hemophilia in Detroit, MI, October 4–6, 2024 In-person and virtual conference focused on supporting women and teens in the bleeding disorders community.
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Coalition for Hemophilia B – Men’s Education & Empowerment Retreat in Stone Mountain, GA, September 18–21, 2025 Retreat for men with Hemophilia B. Selected applicants receive a full travel scholarship (airfare or mileage, lodging, and meals).
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Registration is now open for the free, virtual WFH Global Summit on Women and Girls with Bleeding Disorders, September 25-26, bringing together global experts and advocates to advance care, understanding, and equity for women and girls with bleeding disorders—register here.
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Thank you for your support of the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation (VHF). For some popular ways to give back and help us serve the inherited bleeding disorders community in Virginia, go here. If you have other ideas or questions, please contact Kelly Waters, Executive Director, at info@vahemophilia.org. We look forward to working with you!
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