ARH organised Haemophilia Bike Challenge around Romania’s Palace of Parliament

In Bucharest, Romania, approximately 100 people, including patients and volunteers, participated in the Haemophilia Bike Challenge organised by the Asociatia Romana de Hemofilie (ARH), our National Member Organisation. The event took place around Romania’s iconic Palace of Parliament in a powerful symbolic gesture to encourage and empower people living with bleeding disorders.

The cycling event served as both a demonstration of resilience and a call for action regarding healthcare access. Daniel Andrei, ARH President, emphasised the critical importance of ensuring no patient is left behind: “The alarm signal is that we must not leave anyone behind regardless of their place of residence, whether you are a man or a woman, you need treatment and the state must provide you with this treatment“, Andrei stated. “Ten years ago we were in hospitals with bleeding, now we are doing much better and even if there are financial problems, prophylaxis, comprehensive care should take precedence over any challenges.“

Among the participants was Marius Tănase, EHC Steering Committee Member, who was diagnosed with haemophilia at birth. Tănase’s early diagnosis came through a family connection that likely saved him from years of uncertainty. His older brother’s diagnosis when he began developing unexplained bruises while learning to walk led to Tănase being tested immediately after birth.

“I was fortunate to be diagnosed at birth because my brother, who is a year and a half older, started showing symptoms when he began walking – he had bruises that led to his diagnosis“, Tănase explained in an interview with Antena 3 CNN. “My mother was already pregnant with me at the time, so when I was born, doctors knew to test me immediately.“

The event highlighted a crucial reality: while some patients like Tănase benefit from early diagnosis, many others face delays that can have serious consequences. However, Tănase remains realistic about the challenges that persist in the healthcare system. “While the situation has improved significantly over the years, problems still exist and may become even greater due to budgetary constraints” he noted, reflecting the ongoing concerns shared by many in the bleeding disorders community about sustainable access to treatment.