Page 8 - HFA Dateline 2016 Q3 Fall

HFA Goes to College

By Sarah Shinkman, Staff Member

ransitioning from high school to college is a big step in anyone’s life. For
Tyoung adults living with a bleeding disorder, this time also challenges them to
learn how to manage their health and treatment independently. In August, HFA’s
Young Adult Program recorded a Google Hangout on the topic of going to college.
Three panelists shared valuable insights on planning for school, preparing for the
unexpected, and practicing self-advocacy both in and out of the classroom.

Shelly, Tennessee

“ When preparing to transition to any new place, college

especially, it’s good to be proactive about the care of your
bleeding disorder. Find out if there will be a Hemophilia
Treatment Center near you, and if there is, have your medi-
cal records transferred there and go meet the staff, well in
advance of emergency. If there is no HTC nearby, see what
recommendations your home HTC might have for hospitals,
clinics, ordering factor, and medical care in general while you
”
are away from home.

Sachin, New York

“ Hemophilia doesn't have to mean not being physically

active. As long as you take the proper precautions, keep up-
to-date with your treatments, and prepare for the possibilities,
you can get out there and push hard in whatever you're doing.
There's a lot you can do to set up the environment to your
”
advantage.

Sami, Wisconsin
“ Make finding a school that fulfills your bleeding disorder

needs as important as choosing one that has the best financial
aid package or academic availabilities. It will make adjusting
to your new environment so much easier, and you won't have
to worry about medical or accommodation ‘what ifs.’ Instead,
you'll be able to focus on learning, making new friends, and the
”
fun of campus life.

8 Dateline Federation | Fall 2016