The Louisiana Hemophilia Foundation (LHF) is based in Louisiana. Currently, it operates with a dedicated team of two staff members and 12 core volunteers who are passionate about supporting individuals and families affected by bleeding disorders.
Founded in 1976, LHF has grown to serve approximately 894 individuals and families across both Louisiana and Mississippi. Although Mississippi does not currently have an active chapter, LHF has been proud to step in and provide resources, support, and outreach to patients throughout the state for several years.
LHF plays a critical role in delivering education, advocacy, and community support services to those affected by bleeding disorders. One of their most impactful initiatives is their Advocacy Days. During these events, our community members, including their youngest advocates aged 9–11, meet with legislators at both the state and federal levels to share their personal stories and raise awareness. In fact, some of these young advocates were even featured on the evening news for their powerful presence and message.
Another event LHF is incredibly proud of is their Annual Friends and Family Day, which has attracted nearly 300 attendees for three consecutive years. This event brings together patients, families, and industry partners for a day filled with live music, a traditional crawfish boil, and fun recreational activities—all while fostering a sense of community and shared support.
Despite their growth and successes, LHF faces several unique challenges in serving the bleeding disorders
community. Among them are limited access to care in rural areas, overcoming stigma and misinformation, and ensuring equitable support for underserved populations.
Additionally, families regularly face difficulties navigating Medicaid cuts, insurance issues, and complex healthcare policy changes, which can directly impact their quality of care.
They are also very proud of their Annual Symposium, which brings together the entire community for a day of learning, empowerment, and connection. Beyond that, they host several targeted retreats that address specific needs within their population:
- Men’s Retreat in Grand Isle
- Women’s Retreat in Gulf Shores
- Young Adult Retreat in Baton Rouge
- Camp Bayou Bruisers in Burton, Texas
These retreats enable participants to engage deeply with their peers in a meaningful and supportive environment. LHF’s Scholarship Program is another initiative they take great pride in, as it helps empower the next generation of advocates, leaders, and professionals from their community to achieve their academic and personal goals.
As a local organization, they deeply value the partnerships they maintain with national organizations, such as the Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA). HFA’s support in areas such as advocacy, leadership training, educational resources, and national visibility is instrumental to their success.
National partners help amplify their voice, offer critical tools to strengthen their programs, and provide backing on policy initiatives that directly impact their members’ lives. Continued collaboration on awareness campaigns, access-to-care initiatives, and capacity-building programs helps them expand their impact and reach more families in need.
LHF encourages community members, caregivers, and supporters to get involved and stay connected. You can reach LHF via their website or email.
LHF invites all families—especially those in Mississippi—to join them for future events. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, event announcements, and educational resources.
Together, they continue building a stronger, more connected bleeding disorders community across Louisiana and Mississippi.
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