WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia recognizes March as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of hemophilia, von Willebrand Disease, and other inheritable bleeding disorders; and   

WHEREAS, in the United States, 3 million people are affected by bleeding disorders and in the Commonwealth of Virginia we have over 800 people affected; and  

WHEREAS, 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, first introduced in 1986 as National Hemophilia Awareness Month by President Ronald Reagan; and  

WHEREAS, through the creation of National Hemophilia Awareness Month, awareness of the disease increased during a time when those living with Hemophilia were affected by contaminated blood products; and   

WHEREAS, in 2016, National Hemophilia Month became Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month to include not just hemophilia but also von Willebrand disease, rare factor deficiencies, and platelet disorders; and   

WHEREAS, Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month is now more inclusive and has helped educate the community on these disorders, encourage early diagnosis, and demand for better research and treatment; and  

WHEREAS, the Virginia Bleeding Disorders Program works to ensure access to treatment, outreach services, and patient assistance programs that promote health, independence, and quality of life; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize March 2026, as BLEEDING DISORDERS AWARENESS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.