December 2008

Dear First Step Parents,

My son David sustained a skull fracture and a bleed beneath his skull at birth.  That's when we learned that he had Hemophilia.  I questioned the doctors about his bruising and I was concerned about my positive family history of Hemophilia A.  The first doctor said bruising is normal.  I kept pushing the issue and the second doctor listened.  We caught the bleed.  He received factor and had surgery.  Because we caught it in time, he has no neurological deficits and is doing great.  He might have had brain damage or might have died if I didn't push the issue.

My Advice: Be an advocate for your child and trust your instincts.

Very Sincerely,



Heidi, CT