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Programs & Conferences

Each year, HFSC hosts an array of conferences and programs geared towards various facets of managing a bleeding disorder. Listed below are HFSC’s main conferences held throughout the year. In addition, HFSC hosts community dinners by region in order to create local and organic pockets of community. These dinners are led by our very own community members, those directly affected by bleeding disorders.

We look forward to seeing you at one of these events held almost every month in Southern California!

Events by Month

January

Industry Forum

The purpose of Industry Forum is to present information on new and pipeline products that treat rare bleeding disorders. Often the presentations given directly by pharmaceutical companies may include investigational therapies such as gene therapy. HFSC’s Medical Advisor is always present at this conference to answer any medical questions including those regarding clinical trials. It is important to stay informed about new therapies that arise. 

February

emPOWERment Forum

Legislative and self-advocacy are critical components to the entire rare disease community. HFSC presents current legislative issues facing our community and provides opportunities to address them. Also discussed are self-advocacy issues crucial to our well-being.

March

Women’s Retreat

Women’s bleeding issues continue to present specific challenges with diagnosis, treatment and access.  Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to anemia (low red blood cell count/low blood iron levels), with symptoms of fatigue, paleness, lack of energy and shortness of breath. Many women with bleeding disorders are also caregivers of a child with a bleeding disorder and self-care can be challenging. This retreat presents an opportunity to carve out time for yourself, laugh with your blood sisters and learn how to advocate for your own treatment.

April

World Hemophilia Day: April 17th

Light It Up Red” Join HFSC and other foundations from around the world to bring awareness to the global plight of people with rare blood disorders. HFSC will light up a local monument red and share this photo with others from around the globe on the World Federation of Hemophilia’s website: www.worldhemophiliaday.org. In fact, thousands of people worldwide are united and show their support by lighting up over 70 major landmarks in cities across the world. 

May

Annual Day (formerly Family Info Day)

HFSC’s annual event where the community comes together to learn about updates and strategic goals of the foundation and exciting issues that span medical, psychological, and physical well-being. Come and welcome new community members and see old friends. HFSC also presents its annual awards and recognizes its prolific scholarship winners.

June

Family Retreat

HFSC invites families living with a rare bleeding disorder to enjoy a weekend in the mountains for family camp with a different theme each year. Sample activities for kids and parents include a campfire, swimming, arts and crafts, ropes course, archery, and talent show. Teen and parent activities also are offered throughout the weekend. This special weekend (which includes parents and siblings) offers much-needed respite, recreation, and family time while also allowing children attending summer camp to get to know each other before leaving for camp. On-site medical support is provided in addition to a self-infusion class. Families are provided with their own cabin; however, sleeping bags, and toiletries are not provided. In addition to fun activities, family camp offers attendees the chance to form friendships with families facing similar challenges.

July

Camp Blood Brothers and Sisters

In partnership with and hosted by The Painted Turtle, our summer camp provides a safe and exciting camp experience for children ages 7-16 with a rare genetic blood disorder. Teens aged 17-18 are also welcome to attend camp as Leaders in Training (LIT). In each session, between morning horseback rides and evening campfires, children become artists, swimmers, athletes, canoe paddlers, stargazers, actors on stage, adventurers, and, most importantly, friends. Our campers form a unique community, living in cabins alongside other kids coping with similar medical conditions. With the support of both counselors and cabin mates, kids discover they are capable of doing things they never dreamed possible. Our campers experience a magical transformation, as they sing and dance, paint, play, and develop important friendships.

Life outside of camp may mean a series of medical procedures and hospital stays, but camp is an opportunity for kids to just be kids. With the support of peers, counselors, and on-site medical staff, campers are free to be themselves. For more information and to apply: www.thepaintedturtle.org

August

Back to School Symposium

Issues at school rank as one of the most problematic areas within the bleeding disorders community. Get equipped by learning about your federal rights in school and receive free school supplies for children and siblings with bleeding disorders.

September

Familia de Sangre

The largest bleeding disorders conference held in Spanish, this is a California statewide event held with our sister chapters: Central California Hemophilia Foundation, the Hemophilia Association of San Diego County, and the Hemophilia Foundation of Northern California. All are invited to this special weekend conference which includes more than 700 attendees.

December

Snowflake Festival

At the end of the year, it is time to celebrate our community with our annual Snowflake Festival! Children receive gifts and HFSC teen leaders discuss the importance of advocacy and staying involved. Register early as this event is always sold out.