Page 6 - HFA Dateline 2016 Q3 Fall
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for dinner. While enjoying their well-earned dinner, they listened to a presentation
on emergency preparedness, a topic of particular interest and importance in our
earthquake-prone region. The men continue to request more activities; one dad even
shared with us that participating in these activities had allowed him to become aware
of, and overcome, a private barrier that existed in one of his personal relationships.
HFA: What makes your organization unique from other
Member Organizations?
Michelle: Our incredibly diverse member population makes us not only unique
but very special! Despite our seeming differences, we have the common thread of
community that binds us. We recently hosted Hispanic Celebration Day, featuring
HFA staff member Martha Boria, attended by more than 300 members. More than
20 countries were represented that day, something of which we are tremendously
proud, and we happily displayed that international diversity on an interactive map
at the event. We are so lucky to have access to the incredible resources that Southern
California offers; we’ve had retreats in Malibu, special team events with the LA Lakers
and LA Dodgers, and outdoor events that included swimming for our members. We’re
hoping to get surfing and tennis incorporated into an upcoming event. Fortunately
for our event planners, but unfortunately for our region, we rarely have to worry about
the rain ruining our outdoor events.
HFA: What inspires you about the bleeding disorders community?
Michelle: My true passion is to connect people with resources that they need.
I love that this community, in turn, is immediately responsive to other people’s needs
as well. People are quick to offer help and solutions. Recently, we registered as an
official charity of the Long Beach Marathon, and we quickly signed up more than
50 people to participate and fundraise for our scholarship fund. I was stunned at the
response and we ended up being able to distribute three additional scholarships!
My vision is to ensure our members have total access to HTC treatment, dental needs
fulfilled, and any barriers to education removed. I also want our teens and young
adults to be not only gainfully employed but also pursuing their dreams, knowing
their disorder just makes them stronger and uniquely situated in a competitive
world! n n
After a week of advocacy
training and efforts, the teens
celebrate when Assemblyman
Chris Holden tells them,
“You have convinced
me that I must
support SB 586!”
6 Dateline Federation | Fall 2016