In 2018, the Society of Haemophilia and Allied Disorders in Malawi was enrolled in the Cornerstone Initiative, a WFH development program that focuses on providing support and training to countries who are interested in laying the foundation for basic bleeding disorders care. Chimwemwe Chande, secretary of the organization, notes that there has been a general upswing in awareness about bleeding disorders in Malawi, and, most encouragingly, among healthcare professionals, including the 17 treaters, 40 nurses and 14 lab personnel who received training by the WFH in 2018 and 2019. This enhancement of treatment capacity and infrastructure, coupled with the medication provided through the WFH Humanitarian Aid Program, has been key to establishing sustainable care for patients with bleeding disorders in Malawi. Physicians in the country are now also submitting patient data to the World Bleeding Disorders Registry, which will not only improve with the clinical management of patients but will also aid government advocacy to secure better care. Today, Eneless sees a bright future for her son. “When he grows up,” she says, “he’ll be a doctor so he can help others.”
These investments—and the continued work of volunteers on the ground—will transform care for patients in Malawi and many other developing countries. Since its launch in 2013, the Cornerstone Initiative has been supported by WFH National Member Organizations from developed countries wishing to assist those living with little or no access to care. As of 2019, twelve countries are enrolled in the program. We are grateful to the National Hemophilia Foundation (U.S.A), the U.K. Haemophilia Society and the Canadian Hemophilia Society for their support in 2019.
If you believe that where you live should not determine your level of care, support the work of the WFH today at www.wfh.org/give.