HFNZ Programmes

Camps

HFNZ runs a programme of events for specific groups of people within the bleeding disorder community. For more information Contact your local Haemophilia Outreach Worker (Contact Us)

Family Camp

Despite advances in treatment, many parents feel devastated when their child is diagnosed with a bleeding disorder. Part of the mission at HFNZ is to help share the message that the challenges you face when coping with a bleeding disorder ultimately make you stronger. HFNZ also provides support for families as they discover what haemophilia means for their family.

Held bi-annually, Newly Diagnosed Families Camps bring together young families affected by haemophilia from all over New Zealand. Parents gain strength through knowledge and understanding, and look to each other for friendship and support.  For many children, camp is the first time that they have been around other children and adults with haemophilia. This camaraderie provides campers with a sense of relief that they are not the only ones with haemophilia and with an opportunity to share with others. Children learn about their disorder and enjoy having fun whilst being “just like everyone else”.

Teen Camp

Teen Camps provide an educational and recreational weekend camp for boys with bleeding disorders aged 10-14 years. Held every other year, it gives boys opportunities to interact and forged further friendships with others who same the concerns and challenges of living with a bleeding disorder. Boys who attend Teen camp often return home with an increased sense of self-confidence, a new-found sense of community, and, for many, the ability to self-infuse.  They also have the chance to make new friends and participate in a number of fun activities that entertain, amuse and challenge.

Youth Camp

The next step after Teen Camp, Youth Camp is a weekend programme for youth with bleeding disorders aged 15-24 years. Young adults affected with a bleeding disorder must navigate even more carefully than most through certain rites of passage, such as learning to drive a car and choosing a career. They face unique challenges as they prepare for the important steps on the road to becoming an adult. The young men have the chance to share their experiences, learn about issues they face now or in the future, and most of all have a good time.

Women’s Workshop Weekend (WWW)

As they reach adulthood, many girls start to thinks more seriously about their lives and future. For girls who carry the gene for a genetic disorder or themselves are affected by one, the issues may be more complex. Women’s Workshop Weekends bring together women affected by bleeding disorders. Together they learn, talk – and have a lot of fun.  The result is greater understanding and ability to deal with the physical and emotional implication of their disorder.

Men’s Workshop Weekends bring together men with bleeding disorders for a weekend retreat of education and recreation. The aim is to relax, spend time together and to develop a sense of community while taking part in a number of activities and educational sessions. They discuss strategies on living with haemophilia and learn from one another.