THE BALOGUN FAMILY

This Spotlight appeared in our May 2025 newsletter.

Introducing… the Baloguns!

My name is Adeyemi Balogun, and I’m the mother of Hammerah Balogun, who has Von Willebrand Disease Type 3. Since her diagnosis, our lives have changed in so many ways – emotionally, physically, and even mentally. It has been a learning experience filled with both challenges and moments of strength that I didn’t know we had. We joined the VWD Connect Foundation because we are looking for more than just medical information – we were looking for connection. It’s important for me as a parent to know we’re not alone, and that there’s a community of others who truly understand what living with severe VWD is like. I believe there’s so much we can learn from each other, and I also hope to be a source of encouragement for someone else down the road. Thank you for creating a space where families like mine can feel seen, supported, and empowered. We’re looking forward to being a part of this community.

Where do you live? What are some special things you would show a first-time visitor?

I’m from Seattle, Washington State. If you came to visit, I’d show you the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and maybe take a ferry ride across the Puget Sound. We could grab some fresh seafood, explore local coffee shops, and enjoy the views of Mount Rainier. Seattle has a little bit of everything: city vibes, nature, and great food!

What are some things you or your family like to do for fun together?

As a family from Nigeria, we really value spending time together, and we have several activities that bring us joy. One of our favorite things to do is prepare and enjoy traditional Nigerian meals together. On weekends, we often cook dishes like jollof rice, pounded yam with egusi soup (see recipe next page) or fried plantain, and it’s a time for everyone to pitch in, share stories, and bond. We also love music and dancing.

What is your family’s go-to way to celebrate big moments? Any traditions?

In our family, we place great importance on celebrating big moments with love, tradition, and
togetherness. We mark significant events, like birthdays, graduations, or weddings, through family gatherings filled with food, music, and laughter. We also have a tradition of giving heartfelt gifts and blessings – whether it’s for a birthday or a major achievement, we take time to acknowledge each other’s accomplishments and express our gratitude. It’s a meaningful part of the celebration.

Music is another big part of our celebrations. We always have a playlist of Afrobeats and highlife music, which gets everyone dancing and celebrating. It’s not just about the event itself, but about creating an atmosphere of joy, unity, and connection.

Finally, our celebrations often extend to extended family and friends—in our culture, big moments are not just about the immediate family but the whole community. For us, celebrating big moments is all about creating memories, connecting with each other, and honoring our traditions.

What have been the biggest challenges managing sVWD in the family?

One of the biggest challenges with managing sVWD has been the constant concern over bleeding episodes, especially during everyday activities or minor injuries. It can be difficult to strike the right balance between being cautious and letting my child enjoy life without constant fear. Over time, we’ve learned to stay proactive: keeping track of any triggers that could lead to bleeding and knowing the right steps to take in emergencies. We also maintain regular check-ups and work closely with our doctors to adjust treatment plans as needed.

The best advice I’d give to other families is to never hesitate to ask questions—whether it’s to your doctor, school staff, or even other parents who understand the condition. Support networks are invaluable. Also, be patient with the process and don’t be afraid to adjust your approach as you learn more about the condition and your child’s needs.

Last year was your first conference, right? What are you looking forward to this year?

Yes, last year was my first conference, and it was incredibly informative, everything was spot on! This year, I’m looking forward to learning more about new research and treatment options for sVWD. I also hope to gain more insights into managing the emotional and practical challenges of living with the condition, especially when it comes to balancing care and daily life. I’m excited to connect with others who share similar experiences and gather new strategies to make life a little easier.

Any advice for new Members?

My advice for new Foundation members is: don’t be afraid to ask questions and connect with others, you’re not alone on this journey. Everyone here understands what it’s like to navigate life with VWD, whether as a patient, parent, or caregiver, and the community is incredibly supportive. Also, take advantage of every opportunity to learn—whether it’s through breakout sessions, Q&As, or just conversations in the hallway. You’ll gain valuable information, but just as importantly, you’ll find encouragement and maybe even lifelong connections.