October 28, 2024

Building the Foundation of Hemophilia Care in Green Bay with Co-Founder Peggy Maier

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, John and I welcome Peggy Maier, an extraordinary nurse and co-founder of the Hemophilia Outreach Center (HOC) in Green Bay, Wisconsin. We delve into Peggyโ€™s inspirational journey, the founding of HOC, and her undying commitment to helping those with bleeding disorders. Peggy shares incredible anecdotes from her decades-long career and discusses the evolution of hemophilia care, from grassroots efforts to pioneering advancements like gene therapy.

Peggy Maier, R.N., is a trailblazer in hemophilia care. With an impressive career spanning multiple decades, Peggy co-founded the Hemophilia Outreach Center, transforming it from a small, volunteer-driven initiative into a comprehensive care facility. Peggyโ€™s dedication has positively impacted countless lives, making her an enduring figure in the hemophilia community.

โ€œItโ€™s been a patient-driven clinic from the very beginning, and it still is.โ€ ~ Peggy Maier

Today on Beyond the Bleeds:

  • Peggy and Audrey Noskowicz began training families in Green Bay to self-infuse IVs at home.
  • Both nurses operated initially from Peggyโ€™s home, emphasizing their missionโ€™s informal yet dedicated nature.
  • The first clinic space was a small corner in a St. Vincent lobby, which expanded as demand for their services grew.
  • They partnered with local doctors and worked with the Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation to build their operations.
  • Peggy went without a salary for four months to ensure the clinicโ€™s financial stability.
  • HOCโ€™s growth eventually led to its gaining a suite at Bellin Hospital, where it continued to expand its services.
  • Gene therapy envisioned decades ago, has become a reality at HOC, marking a significant milestone.
  • Since its humble beginnings, HOC has grown into a comprehensive care center, offering outreach clinics and a wide range of services.

Resources Mentioned:

Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation
https://www.glhf.org

Bellin Health:
https://www.bellin.org

Hemophilia Outreach Center:
https://www.hocgb.org

Looking for practical tips, expert advice, and a sense of community while living with or supporting someone with a bleeding disorder?

Subscribe to Beyond the Bleeds, the podcast that explores life with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and other rare conditions. Hosted by Heather Hansen and John Mazzariello, we bring you real stories, expert insights, and heartfelt conversations designed to help you navigate life Beyond the Bleeds.

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Ready for a weekend of connection, education, and fun?

Join the Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundationโ€™s Wisconsin Bleeding Disorders Conference from June 6-8 at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells!

This event is packed with expert-led sessions covering mental health, aging with bleeding disorders, nutrition, advocacy, and cutting-edge treatments. Plus, thereโ€™s something for the whole familyโ€”peer-to-peer discussions, youth programs (ages 7-13), and childcare services (ages 4-6).

Registration includes two nights at the Kalahari Resort, meals, and full access to the resortโ€™s incredible waterpark. Donโ€™t miss outโ€”register by May 1!

Visit glhf.org today to secure your spot and find out about available financial assistance.

We canโ€™t wait to see you there!

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