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Heather Beissel

Meet the Recepients of the 2024 NBCA Community Thrombassador Awards

On January 18, 2025, NBCA Community Thrombassadors – a network of patients and caregivers trained to spread blood clot education,…

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Jen's Stuff - 2024-03-12T121846.894

Introducing the NBCA Advocacy Institute

To put an end to the 100,000 deaths each year to blood clots, the National Blood Clot Alliance is accelerating…

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

Blood clot survivor @trey_smith of the Kansas City

Blood clot survivor @trey_smith of the Kansas City @Chiefs is headed to the Super Bowl yet again!

Trey has been an advocate for blood clot awareness ever since he experienced a blood clot in his lungs (pulmonary embolism) that left him in pain and struggling to breathe. Although he is a professional athlete, Trey is proof that a blood clot can happen to just about anyone.

Congratulations, Trey, on your amazing career and your next Super Bowl, and thank you for supporting and inspiring those that have suffered from blood clots.

At the link in bio, join our community of blood clot survivors and advocates in our 100,000 Reasons Challenge in remembrance of the 100,000 Americans who lose their lives annually to blood clots.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #dvt #pulmonaryembolism #deepveinthrombosis #bloodclotsurvivor #treysmith #kansascitychiefs #nfl #SuperBowlLIX #chiefskingdom #NBCAandTrey

Attention, NBCA community! Are you (or someone yo

Attention, NBCA community!

Are you (or someone you know) an early-career scientist or clinical researcher passionate about advancing thrombosis research? The 2025 Jennifer Luft Emerging VTE Clinician Research Award is now accepting applications!

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

Applicants may be working in basic, translational, clinical, epidemiologic, bioengineering sciences, or any other field, but must be currently working on or planning a patient-oriented VTE project (e.g., studies of shared decision making, access to care, quality of life, health disparities, etc.).

The award is named in memory of Jennifer Luft, 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.

Apply by Friday, February 28, 2025 at 11 p.m. ET. Head to the link in bio for more information about eligibility and to submit your application.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vteresearch #vteclinician #bloodclotresearch #jenniferluft
#pulmonaryembolism #pe #patientorientedresearch #emergingclinicians #emergingvteclinicians

Becoming a parent is life-changing, but for Kyra,

Becoming a parent is life-changing, but for Kyra, it also brought unexpected challenges when severe symptoms after childbirth were dismissed until it was almost too late. Her story sheds light on the risks of blood clots during pregnancy and postpartum, the importance of genetic testing, and the need for greater awareness.

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #stoptheclotstory #bloodclots #vte #dvst #pregnancy #postpartum #fourthrimester #factorvleiden #FVL #proteinsdeficiency #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotawareness

Did you know there is little federal funding for b

Did you know there is little federal funding for blood clot education and awareness efforts in the United States? The National Blood Clot Alliance is on a mission to change that, and we need your help.

We are urging Congress to unlock funding for an expansion of educational and awareness programs to reach more people with life-saving information about blood clots.

It takes a village to raise awareness about this bipartisan issue. Getting involved is easy. Type in your address at the link below to share your story with your local representatives. Let your voice be heard!

👉 Take action at the link in bio (bit.ly/ClotAdvocate2025)

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #advocacy #calltoaction #contactyourreps #bloodclotadvocacy #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotfunding #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotprevention

NBCA Thrombassador program manager, blood clot sur

NBCA Thrombassador program manager, blood clot survivor, and proud U.S. Navy veteran Stephanie Martinez is raising blood clot awareness this weekend at the @CityofJax Veterans' Stand Down Resource Day.

Did you know that military personnel and veterans are at an increased risk for blood clots?

Several factors contribute to this elevated risk, including:

1. Injuries and surgeries: Combat-related injuries, surgeries, and prolonged immobility during recovery can increase clotting risk. These events often result in damage to blood vessels or periods of immobility, both of which are key risk factors.

2. Immobilization and long travel: Veterans often endure long travel times or may experience periods of restricted mobility, which are known to increase the risk of clots.

3. High levels of physical and emotional stress: Stress and conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is more common among veterans, can contribute to inflammation, which raises the risk for blood clots.

4. Underlying health conditions: Higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and other cardiovascular issues in the veteran population can compound clotting risk.

Increased awareness among veterans and their healthcare providers is critical, as early detection and intervention are essential in preventing serious complications from blood clots. Awareness saves lives!

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #veterans #thrombassador #bloodclotawareness #bloodcloteducation
@vanfsg @cityofjax

If you're at risk for blood clots or take anticoag

If you're at risk for blood clots or take anticoagulants, even routine procedures like dental work may require special considerations. Our February PEP Talk is here to help you prepare and stay safe.

Gain insights into how common procedures affect clotting risks, guidance on managing anticoagulation and medications, questions to ask your healthcare team and more.

This session will help you approach medical care with peace of mind.

📅 Secure your spot at the link in bio (https://bit.ly/Feb2025PEPTalk)

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #dentalwork #medicalprocedures #knowyourrisk #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotpatient #anticoagulants #peptalk #bloodclotwebinar #bloodclotrisk

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️ Season 2, Epis

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️

Season 2, Episode 5 of Taking a Breath: A Stop the Clot podcast is now available on all major podcast platforms.

In this episode, listeners hear from Dave Hall, morning news anchor of Fox 5 Las Vegas. After tearing his Achilles tendon while playing pickleball in 2023, he developed a life-threatening saddle pulmonary embolism. Fortunately, he was treated with mechanical thrombectomy, providing immediate relief.

At his wife’s encouragement, he spoke about his blood clot experience during his newscast. To his surprise, the response he received from viewers was the was more significant than any story he had reported in his 30-plus years in the news business.

Thank you, Dave, for sharing your story and spreading life-saving awareness!

Listen at the link in bio or wherever you get your podcasts.

#stoptheclot #takingabreath #bloodclots #bloodclotpodcast #pe #pulmonaryembolism #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotsurvivor #davehall #mechanicalthrombectomy #thrombectomy

Despite following her medical team's instructions,

Despite following her medical team's instructions, Emily faced an unexpected challenge after hip surgery. Her story is a powerful reminder of why awareness and prompt action are so important.

👉Swipe through to read Emily's full story, and leave a comment if you can relate to this experience.

Read more patient stories at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #pulmonaryembolism #pe #pesurvivor #hipsurgery #athlete #pulmonaryinfarction #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotawareness

The National Blood Clot Alliance proudly announces

The National Blood Clot Alliance proudly announces the launch of its first-ever B.L.A.C.K. Church Bus Tour—Black Lives Advocating for Clot Knowledge.

This groundbreaking initiative will take place during Blood Clot Awareness Month in March 2025, visiting Black churches in six key cities across the Southern United States, home to over 55% of the Black population:

- Atlanta, GA
- Birmingham, AL
- Charlotte, NC
- Houston, TX
- Memphis, TN
- New Orleans, LA

“It is unacceptable that such a preventable condition remains a leading cause of mortality among Black Americans, especially Black mothers,” said NBCA Board Member and blood clot survivor Dr. Kakneka Mason.

The tour aims to address these critical health disparities by partnering with trusted local churches to deliver lifesaving blood clot education and awareness directly to Black communities.

Attendees will gain access to valuable resources, free screenings, expert speakers, and practical tools to protect themselves and their families from blood clots.

👉 Learn more at the link in bio (https://bit.ly/StopTheClotBusTour2025)

#stoptheclot #stoptheclotbustour #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotawarenessmonth #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotsurvivor #bustour #healthequity #blackhealthmatters

Blood Clot Awareness Month (March) is fast approac

Blood Clot Awareness Month (March) is fast approaching, and it’s time to take action! Join us for our 5th Annual 100,000 Reasons Challenge and be part of a movement that honors the 100,000 lives lost to blood clots each year.

By participating in this 31-day virtual challenge during Blood Clot Awareness Month, you’re not just moving your body—you’re raising awareness, supporting critical research, and helping prevent future tragedies. Your participation amplifies the voices of those we’ve lost and shows our collective commitment to honor their memories.

✔️ Choose any activity that promotes movement.

✔️ Set your own activity and fundraising goals.

✔️ Make a meaningful difference for Blood Clot Awareness Month.

Let’s make every step, every pedal, every stroke count. Join the Challenge today and help save lives!

👉 Sign up today at the link in bio (bit.ly/100kReasons2025)

#stoptheclot #BloodClotAwarenessMonth2025 #100KReasonsChallenge #100KReasonsChallenge2025 #MoveToStopTheClot #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotpatient #bloodclotsurvivor

The National Blood Clot Alliance honors the many a

The National Blood Clot Alliance honors the many accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on this special day.

His words resonate deeply as we strive for a healthier, more just world: "Of all forms of discrimination and inequalities, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman."

Let's unite in the fight against health disparities.

#stoptheclot #mlkday

Undergoing medical procedures like LASIK, dental w

Undergoing medical procedures like LASIK, dental work, biopsies, or colonoscopies can be routine, but for individuals at risk of blood clots or on anticoagulation, they may require extra precautions.

Join us for our February PEP Talk on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. ET to understand how medical interventions can influence clotting risks and learn practical strategies to navigate them safely.

During this PEP Talk, we’ll discuss:

✅How specific procedures may affect blood clot risks.
✅Key questions to ask your healthcare provider before undergoing a procedure.
✅Managing anticoagulation therapy and other medications during pre- and post-procedure periods.
✅Tips for recognizing signs of potential complications.

This session is designed to empower blood clot patients with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and confidently approach medical care. Don’t miss this chance to ask questions and gain valuable insights from experts in the field.

👉 Register at the link in bio (bit.ly/Feb2025PEPTalk)

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #knowyourrisk #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotpatient #anticoagulants #peptalk #bloodclotwebinar #bloodclotrisk

"I am a healthy 23-year-old woman and had never ex

"I am a healthy 23-year-old woman and had never experienced any real health concerns in the past. I walk the same route every morning to work, but on this particular morning, I was out of breath almost instantly.

When I sat at my desk, I was still unable to catch my breath. It felt like the air was really thick, and my lungs were working overtime just to take in enough air.

Two hours later, I drove myself to the emergency department, where they took a blood test and found my D-Dimer level was elevated. After that, I had an ultrasound, a heart echo, and a CT scan, which revealed multiple large blood clots in all lobes of both lungs. I was in complete shock as I never thought anything like this would happen to me.

The doctor determined the cause to be the oral contraceptive pill, that I had been taking since I was 16. I was later diagnosed with factor V Leiden, and after being on blood thinners for six months, I am now off them and doing well.

This experience has given me a new perspective on life. Surviving something so serious made me realize how fragile health can be, even when you feel young and invincible. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being and not to feel guilty about taking time for self-care.

I am forever grateful that I went to the doctor straight away, even though I was so hesitant at the time. Never let embarrassment stop you from getting help. I almost didn’t go to the hospital because I was worried about it being nothing, but going saved my life. Your health is far more important than worrying about what others might think."

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #stoptheclotstory #bloodclots #vte #factorvleiden #FVL #birthcontrol #estrogen #knowyourrisk #PE #pulmonaryembolism #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotsurvivor

Thank you to everyone who joined our January PEP T

Thank you to everyone who joined our January PEP Talk on understanding the genetics of blood clots. We invited experts Dr. Jordan Schaefer and Dr. Karl Desch of the University of Michigan to join our discussion.

In this clip, Dr. Desch explains why some people with a genetic blood clotting disorder may develop clots and why others with the same disorder do not.

✅ Watch the full recording as well as our other PEP Talks: https://bit.ly/JanPEP25 (👉 link in bio)

✅ Subscribe to our YouTube channel to receive first access to the latest video content.

✅ Sign up to join us on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. ET for our next PEP Talk, where we’ll discuss medical procedures and blood clots. Register: https://bit.ly/Feb2025PEPTalk (👉 link in bio)

(PEP Talk should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult directly with your healthcare provider for medical advice.)

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #thrombophilia #peptalk #factorvleiden #patientseducatingpatients #bloodclotwebinar #familyhealthhistory #bloodcloteducation #knowyourrisk #geneticsandbloodclots

After experiencing unbearable pain and swelling in

After experiencing unbearable pain and swelling in his leg, Lavon sought answers but faced repeated misdiagnoses—until 5 YEARS later, when he finally discovered the truth. This is his story of perseverance, advocacy, and the importance of knowing your family health history.

Swipe through the carousel to read Lavon’s story and learn why trusting your instincts can be life-saving. 👉

#stoptheclot #stoptheclotstory #dvt #familyhistory #gaslit #misdiagnosed #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotawareness

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Don’t miss our January PEP Ta

HAPPENING TONIGHT: Don’t miss our January PEP Talk happening tonight at 7 p.m. ET! Join us to explore how genetics play a role in blood clot risk and what it means for you and your loved ones.

📅 When: Tuesday, January 14 at 7 p.m. ET.

📍 Where: Online – register now and submit your questions! (bit.ly/Dec2024PEPTalk -- link in bio!)

NBCA will host clinical guests: Dr. Jordan Schaefer and Dr. Karl Desch, both of the University of Michigan Health.

P.S. - If you can’t attend the live event, no worries! Register to be the first to receive access to the recording.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #thrombophilia #peptalk #factorvleiden #patientseducatingpatients #bloodclotwebinar #familyhealthhistory #bloodcloteducation #knowyourrisk #geneticsandbloodclots

Did you know blood clots can run in families? Unde

Did you know blood clots can run in families? Understanding the genetic factors that increase clotting risks is vital for prevention and awareness.

Join us TOMORROW for our first PEP Talk of 2025:

📅 When: Tuesday, January 14 at 7 p.m. ET.

📍 Where: Online – register now at the link in bio! (bit.ly/Dec2024PEPTalk)

This webinar will explore hereditary clotting conditions, what to know about family history, and how you can take proactive steps to protect your own health, and the health of your loved ones.

👉 Don’t miss this important session! Register to reserve your spot at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #thrombophilia #peptalk #factorvleiden #patientseducatingpatients #bloodclotwebinar #familyhealthhistory #bloodcloteducation #knowyourrisk #geneticsandbloodclots

"I had my first DVT and PE almost five years ago a

"I had my first DVT and PE almost five years ago at 21 years old. My leg was hurting, but I kept ignoring it. When my dog Kiko started sniffing my leg and whining, I felt that something was wrong because that was unusual behavior for him.

I went to urgent care, and they sent me to the ER. I had a massive clot in my entire leg and a PE. The doctor said I made it just in time.

Two weeks after having the clot cleared, I went for a follow-up and had already formed another massive clot. I had to get a stent put in my iliac vein due to May-Thurner syndrome, and I have to be on blood thinners for life because I also have factor V Leiden (heterozygous).

Since then, I have been treated for other venous diseases, including arteriovenous malformation (when blood vessels are abnormally tangled and form direct connections between arteries and veins, bypassing capillaries), nutcracker syndrome (when the left renal vein is compressed between the aorta and superior mesenteric artery) and congested pelvic syndrome (a chronic condition that causes pelvic pain, thought to be caused by enlarged veins in the lower abdomen) and wonder if they are all related.

I have pain in my legs still and have venous insufficiency, and I am trying to get better every day. I am grateful to my team of doctors and my doggy Kiko for saving my life!

I want to spread awareness that anyone can get a clot! Never give up and always keep fighting!"

Read more stories at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #pe #dvt #venousinsufficiency #FVL #factorvleiden #mts #maythurnersyndrome #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotpatient #bloodthinners #bloodclotawareness

Our next PEP Talk on the genetics of blood clots i

Our next PEP Talk on the genetics of blood clots is fast approaching! We hope to see you TOMORROW, Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 7 p.m. ET.

Thank you to everyone who has registered and sent their questions on this topic. Our experts, Dr. Jordan Schaefer and Dr. Karl Desch, both of the University of Michigan Health, will answer questions like these, which were submitted from our community.

There is still time to sign up and send in any questions you have! Register at the link in bio.

If you’ve already registered and would like to submit a question, please email info@stoptheclot.org.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #thrombophilia #peptalk #patientseducatingpatients #bloodclotwebinar #familyhealthhistory #bloodcloteducation #knowyourrisk #geneticsandbloodclots #bloodclotsurvivor

Staying active is essential for your health, but a

Staying active is essential for your health, but as a blood clot survivor, exercising in frigid weather requires extra care. As much of the US is experiencing a cold snap, we have some tips to keep you moving safely:

- Warm up indoors: Start with light stretches or activities indoors to get your blood flowing before heading outside.

- Dress for the weather: Layer up with breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to stay warm and maintain circulation.

- Ease into it: Avoid sudden, intense activity, which can stress your body. Choose moderate exercises like walking or gentle jogging.

- Stay hydrated: Cold air can be dehydrating—drink water before, during, and after your workout.

- Take breaks: Listen to your body. If you feel discomfort, especially in your legs or chest, stop and rest.

- Know the signs: Stay alert for symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in your legs, or sudden shortness of breath. Seek medical attention immediately if needed.

Winter workouts can be invigorating and safe with the right precautions. Let’s keep moving!

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #vte #exercise #bloodclotsurvivor #bloodclotawareness #coldweatherexercise #exercisesafety

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