Times have been tough these past two years. I’ve been in business in the hemophilia community for 23 years and have never had so many call us for financial assistance, from helping to
pay tuition, to paying electricity bills, even the cost of gas to get to clinic.

Everyone in hemophilia should know about a program from Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA) that can help community members facing hardship.

HFA is a national nonprofit dedicated to advocating for, assisting and representing the bleeding disorders community.

Their “Helping Hands” program provides urgent assistance to individuals and families in the bleeding disorders community who are in a crisis situation. In 2011-2012, HFA distributed over $240,000 to about 470 households to help with expenses such as: housing, transportation, utility bills, and car payments.

And don’t forget your membership matters! In 2013, 100% of membership dues will go directly to the Helping Hands program. Become a member
today to help YOUR blood brothers and sisters in need: http://tiny.cc/irbs0w

Defending Jacob by
William Landay

Set in a suburb of
Boston, this novel tells the tale of Andrew Barber, a respected assistant
district attorney whose 14-year-old son is accused of murdering a classmate. His
world is shattered, his career is ruined as he prepares to fight the very court
system he has worked in for 20 years, to protect the mysterious and reclusive
son he loves. But the neighbors, courts and media are out for blood, someone to
blame, and all evidence points at the son. How far will Andy go to protect his
son, and discover the truth? I learned a lot about legal terms and matters, and
it’s a riveting tale, well told, with a twist in the end. A great
sit-on-the-beach book. Three/five stars.