August 2006 | FamOhio 2006 / Justin Lindhorst

The “Family Annual Meeting of Hemophiliacs in Ohio” was born in the spring of 1992 by six men dedicated to the bleeding disorders community. The founding fathers of FAMOHIO, embroiled with the issues many hemophiliacs faced in the eighties, had a vision of an annual meeting for hemophiliacs and their families to get educated, share stories and provide each other support. Since its advent in 1992, the event has quickly grown to become one of the largest gatherings for people with bleeding disorders in the Midwest. Unfortunately most of the men who began the FAMOHIO legacy have passed; however their vision lives on.

The education, stories and fun continued this year at the Columbus Marriott North, and FAMOHIO was again a success. Families from all across Ohio participated in a range of educational seminars. Topics varied from bleeding disorders basics, to insurance, advocacy, stress management, integrative medicine and a program designed especially for women. Participants had a chance to mingle with sponsors of the event in the main foyer. Friendships were forged and stories were shared over breakfast lunch and dinner served up in the main ball room.

The children and teenagers of FAMOHIO were also provided the opportunity to bond with peers and learn more about bleeding disorders. Separated by age groups, the children took part in a structured aquatic program, and learned the importance of “Doing the Five.” The teenagers relaxed, listened to music and socialized in the “Cruise Room,” while the younger children enjoyed pony rides and a petting zoo.

As families gathered for breakfast on the final morning, good-byes were said, numbers were exchanged, and promises of getting together sooner than later were made. As participants of FAMOHIO 2006 packed up and headed out, one could be certain that everyone left equipped with a little more knowledge, a few new friends and with spirits lifted a little higher. The founding fathers would be proud.

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