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June e-Newsletter | Summer Months, Summer Fun

Each year, more than 300 million people travel on long-distance flights (more than four hours …

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NBCA Names Ascension Sacred Heart as the Second NBCA VTE Center of Excellence™

The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) is proud to welcome Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, FL as the newest NBCA-designated…

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AARP Spotlight: Leslie Lake’s Powerful Journey from Blood Clot Survival to Advocacy

Age is not just a number—it’s a significant risk factor for blood clots, a risk that escalates exponentially with each…

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Advancing blood clot awareness, prevention, diagnosis, and successful treatments to #stoptheclot.

🎉 We’ve got something to celebrate! 🎉

We’re thrilled to share that, thanks to our collective voices, 6 cities, 17 states — and even the U.S. Senate — officially recognized March 2025 as Blood Clot Awareness Month! This national recognition is a significant step forward in educating the public about the risks, signs, and prevention of blood clots.

A heartfelt thank you to our unstoppable community of advocates who stepped up when we asked them to ‘Do Your Part to Stop the Clot’ in March, making this nationwide recognition possible. Your passion is driving real change and spreading life-saving awareness across the country.

Together, we are a powerful force—each voice, action, and declaration contributing to a future where blood clots are recognized, prevented, and conquered. Our strength lies in unity, and together, we're saving lives.

🔗See how we made an impact from coast to coast at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BCAM #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotAwarenessResolution

Thank you to everyone who joined last evening’s

Thank you to everyone who joined last evening’s April PEP Talk on weight, blood clots, and GLP-1 drugs.

In this clip, Dr. Rushad Patell from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, shares insights from his research showing a potential link between GLP-1 medications and reduced blood clot risk.

Catch the full recording—and explore past PEP Talks—at the link in bio.

Mark your calendar: Our next PEP Talk is on May 13 at 7 p.m. and will focus on women and blood clots. Don’t miss it! Register: bit.ly/May2025PEPTalk

(Please note: PEP Talks are for educational purposes only and do not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.)

@bidmchealth #StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar

Corena’s journey with blood clots began when her

Corena’s journey with blood clots began when her leg pain during pregnancy was dismissed each time she visited the ER—until a caring PA finally listened to her and found multiple clots. Years later, chest pain revealed clots in both lungs—this time diagnosed promptly. Her story shows that a previous blood clot is a risk factor for future clots, and that self-advocacy and knowing the signs can be lifesaving.

➡️Swipe through to read Corena's story.

🗣️If you experienced a blood clot, what were your initial signs? Tell us in the comments.

🔗Read more stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #Pregnancy #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor #PregnancyComplications #WomensHealth #SelfAdvocacy

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Our April PEP Talk on weight, b

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Our April PEP Talk on weight, blood clots, and GLP-1 medications kicks off this evening at 7 p.m. ET.

As patients, we know how important this topic is. That's why we're excited to have Dr. Rushad Patell, hematologist at @bidmchealth and co-chair of NBCA’s Council of Emerging Researchers in Thrombosis, joining us to share his expertise and research on this critical issue.

We hope you can join us! Learn more and register at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar

🌍 This World Health Day (April 7), we're proud

🌍 This World Health Day (April 7), we're proud to support the World Health Organization’s campaign, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.”

This year-long initiative is dedicated to improving maternal and newborn health, urging governments and the health community to take stronger action to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, while prioritizing the long-term health and well-being of women.

Pulmonary embolism—a blood clot in the lung—is one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related death in the U.S. Women are five times more likely to experience a blood clot during pregnancy or in the three months postpartum. That risk jumps dramatically—up to 100-fold—in the first week after childbirth.

👉 Learn more about how to protect yourself and your baby from these dangerous blood clots at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #WorldHealthDay #MaterialHealth #NewbornHealth #KnowYourRisk #BloodClots #PulmonaryEmbolism #BloodClotAwareness #HopefulFutures #HealthForAll

Paul was just 19 when he died suddenly from a pulm

Paul was just 19 when he died suddenly from a pulmonary embolism. His only symptom—shortness of breath—was mistaken for asthma. Now, his family shares Paul’s story to raise awareness and help others recognize the signs. Blood clots can happen to anyone, at any age. Know the symptoms.

Swipe through to read Paul's story.

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolism #PE Fatality #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClots

Blood clots can be life-changing, but you’re not

Blood clots can be life-changing, but you’re not alone. Our monthly newsletter delivers the latest community and treatment updates, patient-centered research, survivor stories, and expert resources to help you take charge of your health.

Join a growing community of survivors and advocates dedicated to raising awareness and supporting each other. Knowledge is power—subscribe today at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #newsletter #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotnews #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotpatients #bloodclotsurvivors

Did you know that during an emergency, there is an

Did you know that during an emergency, there is an easy way to communicate that you have a history of blood clots and take blood thinners?

The American College of Emergency Physicians advises people to wear medical ID jewelry if they have experienced blood clots, or if they take blood thinners, which can pose bleeding risks.

Many online sellers offer customizable medical ID bracelets, silicone wristbands and necklaces. The alert should include your major medical conditions, such as a history of pulmonary emboli (PE), medications you’re currently taking, such as an anticoagulant, and the name and phone number of an emergency contact.

Do you wear medical ID jewelry? Show us a photo or tell us in the comments!

#stoptheclot #medicalidbracelet #medicalidband#medicalidband #medicalalertjewelry #bloodclotrecovery #bloodclotsurvivor #anticoagulants #bloodthinners

While on a business trip in a different country, N

While on a business trip in a different country, Nina suddenly felt chest pain, dizziness, and trouble breathing. She was diagnosed with a massive pulmonary embolism.

Her recovery led her to a new purpose—helping bring medicines to patients faster and raising awareness as an NBCA Thrombassador. Her advice is to know the signs and give yourself time to heal.

More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor #DVT #International #PE #Thrombassador #Travel #SafeTravel

Age is not just a number—it's a significant risk

Age is not just a number—it's a significant risk factor for blood clots, a risk that escalates exponentially with each passing year.

In a recent interview with @AARP, National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) Volunteer President Leslie Lake shared her powerful story of survival after a sudden blood clot in her lungs (pulmonary embolism)—a story that highlights the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and advocacy.

“I was coming back from the dry cleaner near my apartment, coming up a little incline that I’d walked thousands of times before,” Leslie recalled. “All of a sudden, I couldn’t breathe. It literally felt as if someone had put their hands around my neck and squeezed all of the oxygen out of my body. I thought I was having a heart attack.”

Leslie’s terrifying journey to diagnosis took hours, and even after she was discharged, she left without any resources or clear direction on how to move forward. This information gap led her to the NBCA.

“I was given a second chance, and so I want to make sure that I can pay that forward,” she said. “I feel privileged to be in a situation now where I’m sitting here today in the hope that I’ll reach somebody and save their life.”

We are deeply grateful to AARP—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older—for amplifying this critical conversation. Every story shared has the power to save lives.

Learn more at the AARP link in bio and share with anyone you know who could be at risk.

#StoptheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #AARP #BloodClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolismStory #BloodClotSurvivor #BloodClotPatient #BloodClotAwareness @lesliellake

Obesity significantly increases the risk of blood

Obesity significantly increases the risk of blood clots, like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Our next PEP Talk on Tuesday, April 8, at 7 p.m. ET will explore the connection between body weight and blood clots, and how GLP-1 medications may help lower the risk.

Why is weight a risk factor for blood clots?

➡️ Inflammation: Obesity can lead to ongoing, low-level inflammation, which makes the blood more likely to clot.

➡️ Slower blood flow: Excess weight can put pressure on veins and slow circulation, raising the risk of clots.

➡️ More clotting proteins: People with obesity often have higher levels of proteins that help their blood clot, making clots more likely.

➡️ Metabolic issues: Conditions like type 2 diabetes, common in obesity, can further increase the clot risk.

➡️ Less movement: Limited activity, such as after surgery or long travel, can cause blood to pool in veins, increasing the chance of clots.

👉 Register for our April PEP Talk to learn more: bit.ly/April2025PEPTalk (Link in bio)

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #PEPTalk #GLP1 #GLP1Community #GLP1WeightLoss #GLP1Journey #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #BloodClotWebinar #PulmonaryEmbolism #Thrombosis #PE #DVT #KnowYourRisk

Taylor developed leg pain and a fever weeks after

Taylor developed leg pain and a fever weeks after giving birth. Initially diagnosed with sciatica, her symptoms worsened until a medication reaction led her to the ER, where tests revealed blood clots. She’s sharing her story to help others trust their instincts.

Did you ever have to advocate for yourself in a healthcare setting? Tell us about it in the comments.

More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #VTE #DVT #PE #Pregnancy #Postpartum #CSection #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotSurvivor

We’re grateful for blackdoctor.org — a compreh

We’re grateful for blackdoctor.org — a comprehensive online health resource specifically targeted to African Americans — for featuring NBCA’s B.L.A.C.K. Church Bus Tour (Black Lives Advocating for Clot Knowledge).

The piece helped to drive awareness of our bus tour initiative as well as the event last Saturday at @theblvdmemphis. The article quotes Shirley Bondon, executive director of @blackclergy901, one of our Memphis bus tour partners.

“This bus tour is a significant step forward in raising awareness, and we encourage other communities to join forces with us to protect Black lives,” Bondon said.

Read the full article at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotBusTour #BlackChurchBusTour #BloodClotAwareness #Memphis #HealthEquity #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BCAM #DVT #PE #VTE

The final stop for NBCA’s B.L.A.C.K. Church Bus

The final stop for NBCA’s B.L.A.C.K. Church Bus Tour — Black Lives Advocating for Clot Knowledge — was in Memphis, where we spent a day at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church educating about blood clots, performing ultrasounds to check for deep vein thrombosis, and sharing stories.

The day was especially meaningful because Mayor Paul Young proclaimed March 29 as “Stop the Clot Day” in Memphis.

We spent the past month spreading blood clot awareness through the Southern US, which is home to more than half of the Black population in the country, because Black Americans face an up to 60% higher blood clot incidence and related mortality than any other race.

As we reflect on the past month of traveling more than 1,650 miles through seven cities — Washington, DC; Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; Birmingham, AL; Pensacola, FL; Memphis, TN; and Nashville, TN — we’re grateful for the tireless work of our partner organizations, the wonderful people who attended our events, the health equity advocates who welcomed us, and the media coverage the tour received.

A special shout out to NBCA Board Secretary Arshell Brooks-Harris, who lost her daughter Leschel to a pulmonary embolism, and her husband Andre, who were on the bus tour from start to finish.

Stay tuned for more information on a second bus tour coming in the next few months!

@grady.hospital
@ulgatl
@atlanta_women
@zbcmarietta
@ascension_org
@memphishealthcenter
@universalultrasound
@julie.at.uum
@theblvdmemphis
@blackckergy901
@blackclergytn

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotBusTour #BlackChurchBusTour #BloodClotAwareness #Memphis #Atlanta #Birmingham #Nashville #Pensacola #Charlotte #HealthEquity #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BCAM #DVT #PE #VTE

Today is the last day of Blood Clot Awareness Mont

Today is the last day of Blood Clot Awareness Month and our 100,000 Reasons Challenge! We are deeply grateful for everyone who has been ‘Doing Their Part to Stop the Clot’ during March.

Whether you joined the Challenge, shared your story, made a donation, organized an event or participated in one, amplified blood clot awareness resources on social media, championed your city or state to officially recognize BCAM, sent your letter to your Congressional reps, took part in NBCA’s Capitol Hill Day, joined us for a bus tour event, or raised blood clot awareness during one-on-one conversations, THANK YOU.

Every action plants a seed and creates a ripple effect, and the information that you spread could help to save countless lives.

We encourage you to continue spreading awareness in any way you are capable even after BCAM is over.

Let us also treat every month as if it is Blood Clot Awareness Month because consistent outreach is how more lives will be saved.

There is still time to donate to help us reach our goal of raising $100,000, in honor of the 100,000 lives lost each year in the U.S. to blood clots. Link in bio!

#StopTheClot #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotEducation #DoYourPartToStopTheClot

Finley, a kind and driven young man with dreams of

Finley, a kind and driven young man with dreams of playing football and studying computer science in college, died after his symptoms were misidentified. His legacy lives on through organ donations, saving multiple lives. 🫶 Swipe through to read his story, lovingly written by his mother, Veronica.

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #BloodClots #VTE #PulmonaryEmbolism #PE #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotFatality #FVL #FactorVLeiden #Factor5Leiden

Today is National Doctors’ Day, and it’s fitti

Today is National Doctors’ Day, and it’s fitting that it also coincides with Blood Clot Awareness Month!

We’re grateful for the members of our Medical and Scientific Advisory Board (MASAB) and Council of Emerging Researchers (CERT) members for ‘Doing Their Part to Stop the Clot’ with their commitment to blood clot patients.

In addition to their contributions to blood clot research and patient care, MASAB and CERT members generously volunteer their time each year to advance our mission.

They champion blood clot awareness and prevention initiatives, contribute to patient education through platforms like our PEP Talks and podcast, and ensure our resources reflect the latest clinical advancements.

To our MASAB and CERT members, and all of the doctors who actively engage with our community, listening, learning, and advocating for better outcomes, THANK YOU.

Leave a comment to join us in celebrating their commitment to the patient community!

#StopTheClot #VTE #BloodClots #NationalDoctorsDay #NBCACERT #NBCAMASAB #BloodClotDoctor #BloodClotAwareness #BloodClotPrevention #BCAM2025 #BloodClotAwarenessMonth #MASAB #CERT

A month after Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio

A month after Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), another NBA player, Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks, was also diagnosed with a DVT this week.

This news has people wondering why athletes get blood clots and how a DVT diagnosis might effect athletes long-term.

Julie Partridge, professor of sport and exercise psychology at Southern Illinois University and vice chair of NBCA’s Board of Directors, spoke to the Associated Press about this.

Read it at the link in bio.

NBCA wishes Damian Lillard a smooth and quick recovery.

@Wemby @DamianLillard @Bucks #StopTheClot #DamianLillard #MilwaukeeBucks #BloodClots #DVT #DeepVeinThrombosis

After multiple ER visits where her symptoms were d

After multiple ER visits where her symptoms were dismissed, Autumn was finally diagnosed with bilateral PE and DVT—just in time to save her life. She never got to finish her high school sports career, but she’s learned the importance of self-advocacy and prioritizing both physical and mental recovery. Swipe through to read her full story.

More stories at the link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #PulmonaryEmbolism #DeepVeinThrombosis #Misdiagnosed #BloodClotAwareness

The National Blood Clot Alliance is thrilled to an

The National Blood Clot Alliance is thrilled to announce that Dr. Jordan Schafer of University of Michigan Health is the 2025 recipient of the Jennifer Luft Emerging VTE Clinician Research Award.

This $20,000 award supports individuals dedicated to improving the understanding and treatment of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) through patient-centered research.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this award and truly grateful to the National Blood Clot Alliance for making this opportunity possible," said Dr. Schaefer, who also sits on NBCA's Council of Emerging Researchers in Thrombosis.

"This award will help fund my research focused on improving care for individuals with blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Through my work, I hope to educate others on blood clots and improve the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care for patients.”

The award is named in memory of Jennifer Luft of New York, who suffered from pulmonary emboli in 2012 at age 23, resulting in an anoxic brain injury that left her unable to walk or talk. Jennifer’s family lovingly cared for her until her death in 2022. Inspired by her resilience, NBCA established this award in 2023 to honor Jennifer’s legacy.

Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20) announced Dr. Schaefer’s award during NBCA’s Capitol Hill Day reception. Tonko, who represents the Lufts’ district and is acquainted with the family, was the connector who brought NBCA and the Luft family together to establish this meaningful award.

We would like to congratulate Dr. Schaefer on this well-deserved recognition.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vteresearch #vteclinician #bloodclotresearch #jenniferluft #pulmonaryembolism #pe #patientorientedresearch #emergingclinicians #emergingvteclinicians #CERT @umichmedicine @reppaultonko

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