Mission

“Dedicated to serving the needs of the bleeding disorder community through education, advocacy and the support of research to find a cure”.

History of the Virginia Hemophilia Foundation

The Virginia Hemophilia Foundation (VHF) was founded in 1975 (then known as the United Virginia Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation) by a group of concerned parents, patients, doctors, and nurses with the common goal of helping those persons affected by hemophilia and related bleeding disorders. At that time, treating bleeding episodes was time consuming and not very efficient. Many bleeding episodes required lengthy hospital stays and left permanent damage - life was difficult at best and pain was a way of life.

Today, treatment is much better and bleeding disorders can usually be managed through home treatment. Hospital stays are more infrequent, however living with a chronic illness still presents challenges as the cost of treating hemophilia can easily run over $200,000 per year. Health insurance is also a very real concern and may be difficult to obtain, as job choices are still somewhat limited.

Through various forms of personal, medical, and financial support, VHF continues to have a strong presence and provides a variety of educational and support services for individuals and families who are dealing with a bleeding disorder. Through advocacy at the state and national level, VHF provides training for those interested in telling their stories and advocating in Richmond and Washington to our elected officials to ensure the public and others are aware of the needs of those with a bleeding disorder. Annual meetings are conducted to keep members informed of the issues concerning them with up-to-date medical information as well as health insurance issues and scheduled VHF and related events throughout the year. Through a partnership with a local non-profit organization, family, adults and children with bleeding disorders can attend camps designed for fun, sharing and a place of relaxation – these camps are conducted once a year. VHF provides a quarterly newsletter as well as mailings pertinent to those with bleeding disorders and provides assistance in the form of Medic-Alert Bracelets and other financial help when needed.

For over 30 years VHF has been there for the bleeding disorder community and will continue to provide these and other services to the families and individuals living with Hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.  VHF is a proud to be affiliated with the National Hemophilia Foundation and a member of the Hemophilia Federation of America.