I have hemophilia, which means I will continue bleeding longer than normal because my factor protein levels are deficient. For example, I got a joint bleed in my finger because I accidentally jammed my fingers into my dad's hand while playing a game. Instead of just swelling in the joint from an injury like normal, I had bleeding into my joint that continued until I received an intravenous infusion of factor.  It took two infusions to stop the active bleeding, reduce the bleeding that had accumulated in the joint, and allow my finger to heal properly with normal range of motion again.  

There are certain sports that are considered more safe for people with bleeding disorders (non-contact sports).  Swimming is one of those sports which I have grown to love.  For the past three years, I have held a swim-a-thon to raise money for the Walk. One of my goals was to swim 2.5 miles in less than 1 hour  for my swim-a-thon.

I am very thankful for the support of Bleeding Disorders Foundation of North Carolina through the years.  I have benefited from their fun, educational programs such as the Teen Retreat I attended this past summer. I also wear a medical ID I received from them.  These things are possible because of the funds raised from the Walk.  

I would greatly appreciate your support as I Walk (and Swim!) to raise money for BDFNC!!