Physical activity is crucial for patients with bleeding disorders as it strengthens muscles and joints, reducing the likelihood of bleeding episodes and joint damage. Additionally, regular exercise improves overall cardiovascular health and enhances quality of life by promoting physical and mental well-being.

The EHC’s #ThisWay campaign aims to promote physical and mental health and wellbeing through a range of initiatives, such as sharing patient stories, facilitating physical activity challenges, and hosting walking tours during EHC Conferences, among others.

Patients’ stories

The EHC consistently conducts interviews and gathers patient narratives to enhance understanding of the experience of individuals living with a rare bleeding disorder, as well as to provide insights into the caregiver perspective on the impact of such disorders on quality of life. Many of these patient accounts serve to inspire fellow patients to overcome challenges related to both physical and mental well-being.

• Ross’s story (United Kingdom, a patient with severe haemophilia B)
• Scott’s story (United Kingdom, a patient with severe haemophilia A)
• William’s story (United Kingdom, a patient with severe haemophilia A)
• Annabel’s story (Estonia, a patient with von Willebrand Disease)
• Adam’s story (Poland, a patient with severe haemophilia B)
• Camilla’s story (Switzerland/Sweden, a caregiver)

Physical activity challenges

The EHC frequently coordinates physical activity challenges within the community to foster motivation and incentivise participation, infusing elements of enjoyment and cultivating camaraderie. These endeavours are undertaken to enhance physical and mental well-being, strengthen community bonds, and increase awareness and advocacy.

Physical Activity Grants

With the Physical Activity Grant (PAG), the EHC wants to support National Member Organisations (NMOs) in organising physio and physical activities. Read more on the Grants page.

#ThisWay podcasts

Listen to them on our SoundCloud here.

#ThisWay videos

Watch them on our YouTube channel here.

#ThisWay Facebook live videos

Watch them on our Facebook page here.

EHC Staff contact person

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please contact Zita Gacser, EHC Behavioural Change Lead.