Mary Anne Schall, Interim Executive Director

 

With Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season only weeks away, it seems appropriate to pause and celebrate the love of family, the warmth of friendships, and the blessings of the past year. It’s also time to reflect on 2010 – to celebrate the successes and review the challenges.

For Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation, 2010 was a year of success and transition. The year closed with GLHF executive director, Sandra Lampman, stepping down. The programs and events of the past year are a testament to the plans she implemented during her tenure.

It is my privilege to report that in 2010 over 300 individuals participated in GLHF’s advocacy, education, networking, and exercise programs, over 50 individuals were supported through the Patient Financial Assistance program, 26 youth attended camp through the GLHF campership program, and another 7 individuals received scholarships to advance their education.

In 2010, GLHF launched its first edition of the web-based newsletter. Electronic newsletters now bring current bleeding disorder information and programming updates to over 900 individuals. This coming December will mark the inaugural podcast of the GLHF web-library. The podcasts will allow families across the state to view relevant educational programming from the comfort of their homes.

As we look ahead to 2011, GLHF is committed to finding innovative ways to support the needs of the bleeding disorders community. We’ve planned an exciting array of services that will include our first-ever Family Camp, an expanded WI Bleeding Disorders Conference, and a return to the capitol in Madison for Blood Disorders Day.

Having served GLHF for almost 20 years, it is a privilege to be stepping in as Interim Director to work with the dedicated GLHF staff and Board of Directors to strengthen services and provide a powerful voice of advocacy to the bleeding disorders commu¬nity. Thank you for your continued support of GLHF and warm wishes for health and happiness in 2011.