16/04/2026
❤️ 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮 𝗗𝗮𝘆 – 𝟭𝟳 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 🩸
It's World Haemophilia Day tomorrow, and I’ve been reflecting on a condition that has been a huge part of my life: Von Willebrand’s Disease Type 2M 🩸
This year, the global theme is “Diagnosis: First step to care” — a reminder that accurate diagnosis is the gateway to treatment and support 🩺
For me, that first step came late. Although I was born with Von Willebrand’s Disease, I wasn't diagnosed until I was 36. Most of my adult life, my symptoms — like very poor healing, sudden and severe bruising, and significant bleeding — were dismissed or minimised. It wasn’t until my mum was diagnosed that I, along with my sister and aunt, were screened — and my world changed 🌎
In 2024, my health took another turn with a diagnosis of Adenomyosis, and just last month I was also diagnosed with Endometriosis. I’ve had to fight for help at every turn. For the last 14 months, to manage my Von Willebrand’s Disease, Adenomyosis, and Endometriosis, I’ve been receiving monthly plasma-derived factor IV treatment three days a month, which is essential in keeping bleeding under control 💉
Bleeding disorders can be serious — if I have an accident that involves concussion or significant bleeding, I need urgent specialist care, as it can be the difference between life and death. In the UK, there are only five specialist Haemophilia Centres, with mine being St. James’ University Hospital in Leeds, to whom I am incredibly grateful 🏥👩🏽⚕️
Many people with bleeding disorders around the world still go undiagnosed and untreated, missing the vital first step to care, just like I did 😔
To celebrate World Haemophilia Day, I’m sharing my story to highlight how critical early diagnosis is — not just for me, but for anyone living with a bleeding disorder. By raising awareness, we can help improve diagnosis, access to treatment, and ultimately quality of life for thousands of people worldwide 🌎💫
Something exciting on this topic is coming soon that I can’t wait to share — keep your eyes peeled! 👀🎬
The Haemophilia Society UK