FACTOR
GEORGE

George's Journey

In the early hours of August 15, 2023 at 12:32 am, George made his spirited entrance into the world, brimming with energy and determination. The birth of our cherished George brought us profound joy and an unbreakable bond.

However, as the first 24 hours unfolded, a series of events hinted at the uniqueness of George's situation. Routine health assessments, including a heel puncture for blood tests, exposed a concerning issue. The blood from the heel poke did not clot as expected, raising an initial flag of concern.

As the week progressed, challenges mounted. George's circumcision experienced persistent bleeding, initially attributed to a minor accidental nick he incurred during a diaper change. Over the course of 8 hours, medical professionals exhaustively attempted various techniques to halt the bleeding. Even a urologist's intervention, involving several stitches, did not achieve the desired result. Compounding the concern, George's heel, punctured nearly 36 hours earlier for testing, still exhibited bleeding.

Then, around 4:00 pm on that pivotal Thursday, our lives underwent an irreversible transformation. George's bloodwork unveiled a staggering revelation – his factor eight levels were below 0.3%, a stark contrast to the normal range of 80%-100%. The diagnosis was crystal clear: Severe Hemophilia A. Never could we have anticipated such a diagnosis. The revelation painted a new reality for George and our family

George's young life will be marked by a series of regular infusions, a vital ritual designed to provide him with the clotting factors his body lacks. These infusions are his shield, his defense against potential bleeding episodes that might otherwise threaten his well-being. The everyday experiences most take for granted, like learning to ride a bike or joining in playground games, and sports will be interspersed with necessary precautions.

This journey isn't one George faces alone; his family; Mom, Dad, big brother Tommy, Grandma, Grandpa, Yia Yia, Aunts, Uncles, and friends, with hearts woven together, will be right beside him every step of the way. Medical professionals, those dedicated and steadfast, will become guiding lights through the labyrinth of challenges. Together, this collective force will help George discover his reservoir of resilience, his innate strength, and the promise that life holds.

As George's narrative unfolds, it's important to remember that his story is only in its opening chapters. Alongside his family and the unwavering medical team, George's tale of courage is just commencing. In the face of these formidable odds, we embark on this expedition with George, fueled by love that knows no bounds, fortified by the courage that dwells within, and fueled by the dream of a life imbued with limitless potential.