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Today on Beyond the Bleeds, Heather and John welcome back Dr. Bridget Freeman, Pediatric Hematologist at Hemophilia Outreach Center (HOC), to discuss raising confident children with bleeding disorders. They explore how parents can balance protecting their children with giving them the freedom to grow, participate in activities, and develop independence.
Dr. Freeman explains how understanding a child’s bleeding disorder and available treatments can help parents manage their fears. She discusses the importance of allowing children to participate in everyday activities, build friendships, and enjoy childhood experiences without unnecessary restrictions. The conversation also explores how treating children differently from their peers can affect their confidence, self-esteem, and emotional well-being.
As children grow, families face new decisions about sports, social activities, and managing medical care. Dr. Freeman shares how parents can evaluate risks, work with their healthcare team, and gradually introduce responsibilities such as understanding treatments, ordering factor, and communicating with their care providers. She emphasizes that building independence starts with small steps and develops through practice, patience, and trust.
Most importantly, Dr. Freeman encourages parents to focus on what their children can do rather than letting fear define their experiences. She explains how knowledge, supportive relationships, and opportunities to make decisions can help children develop confidence and resilience. By encouraging independence throughout childhood, families can help prepare young people with bleeding disorders to successfully manage their health as adults.
“Trust in your own child and that they will make the correct decisions.” — Dr. Bridget Freeman
This episode of Beyond the Bleeds explores:
- How parents can manage their fears while raising a child with a bleeding disorder
- Balancing safety with opportunities for sports, friendships, and everyday childhood activities
- The importance of building confidence, self-esteem, and independence without unnecessary restrictions
- Ways parents can gradually teach children to take responsibility for their treatments and healthcare needs
- Preparing children with bleeding disorders for a successful transition into adulthood
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 share real stories and helpful conversations to support families at every stage.
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