The Gateway Hemophilia Association is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3), community based organization, dedicated to the advocacy, education and support of families affected by bleeding disorders. We have been serving families since 1969 in southern Illinois and eastern Missouri.
One of our most popular programs is Family Education Weekend (FEW), the only program of its kind in the Greater St. Louis area. It provides those affected by bleeding disorders an opportunity to catch up on the latest trends in the bleeding disorders community while meeting other local families that are experiencing some of the same health issues. It helps them to become more knowledgeable about the disorder and to develop a stronger support system that benefits the emotional health of individuals.
FEW will take place July 12 – 14, 2019 at The Doubletree Chesterfield, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017. GHA expects over 200 people to attend and there will be activities planned for adults, teens, and children. This year’s program will include an exhibit hall showcasing several Manufacturer and Specialty Pharmacy companies that cater to the bleeding disorder’s community. The agenda will have sessions dealing with disclosing a bleeding disorder, Alternative and New Treatments, Transitioning Youth, school issues, and multiple round-table discussions. In addition, there will be sessions that are specific to young adults, women with bleeding disorders, teens, and aging well with a bleeding disorder. The children’s programs are for age birth to 18 years.
To be eligible to attend the FEW conference you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Diagnosed with hemophilia, Von Willebrand Disease or another bleeding disorder
- Diagnosed as a carrier of hemophilia or another bleeding disorder
- Caregiver of a person with a bleeding disorder
GHA will provide scheduled meals and hotel accommodations for GHA members that live within the service area, which includes southern Illinois and eastern Missouri. For more information contact GHA at (314) 482-5973.
Policies – this event is for people with a bleeding disorder, their immediate family, and their significant other over the age of 18.
We do not have funding for friends and other members outside their immediate family without a bleeding disorder to attend, except for grandparents. All guests must be at least 21 years old to check-in at this property and must remain on site. Daycare – Parents must stay on hotel premises for emergency reasons.
Registration will open on April 1.