Leonardo is  our first child and as new parents, we were already terrified about the basics. We were prepared for feedings and diaper changing, which seemed easy enough but was not prepared to learn about hemophilia. We worried about developmental delays during pregnancy, but no one mentioned anything about hemophilia. That’s because I had no idea that there was any trace of it in me or my family. When Leonardo turned six months old, they referred us to Weill Cornell’s Hemophilia Treatment Center, and that’s when everything changed. We were introduced to what later would become, nurses and doctors that are family. We finally found comfort, knowledge, and most importantly, Leo was going to be cared for in the best way possible.

With our doctors’ help, we picked an effective treatment for Leo when he was eight months old. Now, just over two years old, we have only had one emergency room visit! His treatment has changed his and our lives!

We feel so much better when he rides his scooter, or when he is running after his ball. Leonardo is a calm and quiet boy for the most part, YEAH RIGHT! He has tried to climb every piece of furniture in our house! He runs! He jumps! And he has scrapes and bumps to prove it!

We have been more than blessed with the amount of support we have in our own families as well as the hemophilia community! We started attending the Walk in 2021 when Leo had just turned one, and our families really went above and beyond to show support. From fundraising to helping make t-shirts and of course showing up to the walk! We have been overwhelmed with love. I have also met some amazing people at the New York City Hemophilia Chapter that have really helped us find some comfort in knowing Leo can live a normal life! This walk paves the way for the future in Hemophilia. The future for Leonardo and kids just like him!

I’m thrilled to be participating in the 2026 Unite for Bleeding Disorders Walk, a fundraiser to support the bleeding disorders community! All money raised stays within our community and funds crucial advocacy, education, research, and support services. I’m passionate about this cause and need your help! Every donation—big or small—helps me reach my fundraising goal and directly impacts this important cause. 

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you for standing with my family in this effort! Your support means the world to me! 
Francesca (warrior mom❤️)