HoG Salutes Three New Mighty Stickers
Horizons in Hemophilia, October 2009
By Michelle Lowe, RN, Outreach Nurse and Penny Kumpf, RN, VWD Outreach Nurse
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Hunter is 8 years old. His outreach nurse, Michelle Lowe, RN, reviewed infusion procedures with him and practiced with him a few times, but his mother deserves most of the credit for helping him with his infusion training. Hunter has always been very self motivated. He has attended Camp Wannaklot for the past two years and absolutely loves it. He is very active and enjoys fishing, camping and every other outdoor activity one can imagine.
Josh is 11 years old and began self-infusion training in 2008. His outreach nurse, Michelle Lowe, RN, worked with him to successfully achieve this goal. He has always had a very positive and optimistic attitude and was a very fast learner. Josh and his family enjoyed attending the HoG dinner in their area. His hobbies are playing with his dogs, fishing, puzzle books, riding bikes, and building things. He is also excited that he was chosen to be the water boy for his brother’s football team this year.
“Busting with pride” is how nurse Penny Kumpf, RN, says 12 year-old Zach feels about achieving his place in the mighty sticker club. In a world full of bugle playing, animals, and scouts, Zach found the desire to learn self infusion so he can attend scout camp without having to worry about who is going to help him with infusions. His mom is delighted that Zach is becoming such a fine young man and has taken another step towards independence. Zach, we are proud of you and look forward to hearing that bugle again at camp!
All three can now treat themselves more easily and stop their bleeds sooner. Michelle and Penny applaud these brave young men who have taken a big step toward keeping themselves strong and healthy.
Learning self-infusion or home infusion can save a family time and money by eliminating costly visits to the emergency room for treatment. It also helps kids and adults reduce the risk of injury, pain and joint deterioration by allowing them to treat right away, rather than prolonging the bleeding time. If you would like more information on learning to infuse, please contact your treatment center or HoG outreach nurse.