Our blood has a number of proteins including the VWF (Von Willebrand factor) that helps it clot faster when necessary. Unfortunately, people with VWD have low levels of VWF which prevents their blood from clotting faster when injured.
This factor functions by attaching itself to the platelets at the injury site, resulting in wound clotting. But if you have VWD, then your injury may take longer to clot or not even clot properly resulting in loss of blood.
This rare condition affects one in every between a hundred to ten thousand people, including famous people.
Speaking of the famous, here are some notable individuals who have openly discussed their VWD diagnosis.
1. Chloe Christos
The stylist and art director from Perth, Australia bled for 5 years because she had VWD. After getting her first period, when she was 14 years old, Chloe bled continuously until she was 19 years old. Since she was embarrassed, she kept silent and didn’t seek professional assistance. Chloe was diagnosed with VWD when she was 19 years old and had to take iron infusion every week since she was anemic.
2. Lauryn Hicks
Hicks is a talented softball player who has been playing competitive softball since she was 10 years old. Originally, her parents didn’t know about her condition, so they let her play competitive soccer.
But they first noticed a difference when she got injured while practicing soccer. She was diagnosed with VWD in her second grade when the doctors removed her tonsils.
After doing some tests, they realized that she had this condition but didn’t know what it was. The doctors confirmed her condition when she was 12 years old. The doctors advised her against taking part in any form of sports, but she was adamant and plays softball to date.
3. Drew Douglas-Cardiff
Back in 2012, Drew was lucky enough to play football when he was 5 years old despite having being diagnosed with VWD. His condition prevented him from taking part in sports which made his first touchdown very memorable to his mum.
During that time, he was playing for Tiny-Mite Wolves with kids who were older and bigger than him. While playing, he had seventeen chronic nose bleeds which prompted his mum to take him to the hospital where he was diagnosed with VWD type 2 and low factor 9 level.
4. Ray Pierce
Even though Pierce has VWD he does love sports and even represented his university in the breaststroke and freestyle sprint categories back in 2014. While at Catholic University of America, Ray was a gymnast, ran track, and even played basketball. Ray was diagnosed with type-1 VWD while he was 3 years old. The symptoms may be mild, but he does nosebleed sometimes.
5. Mykael White
White was diagnosed with VWD when he was 2 years old and he tends to experience nosebleeds that can last for over an hour. His longest nose bleed lasted for over 150 minutes and he missed school at some point because of nose bleeding. But he doesn’t let the condition stop him as he is an athletic guy who loves the tracks and swimming.
Can You Stop Excessive Bleeding If You Have VWD?
Yes, there are several ways you can control the heavy bleeding. For instance, Mykael White injects his body with a blood clot factor twice per week. On the other hand, patients like Chloe Christos use intranasal DDAVP to control heavy menstrual bleeding. Therefore, there is hope for people with VWD as there are several ways they can control the condition.
Warp Up
This quick list of famous individuals diagnosed with VWD reminds us of the strength and resilience within us all. Their openness about their struggles not only raises awareness but also offers hope and encouragement to those facing similar challenges. Remember, a diagnosis does not define one’s worth or potential. With determination and support, anyone can overcome obstacles and thrive. Let their journeys inspire you to embrace your uniqueness and pursue your dreams with courage.
