Myra Hanson

"I lived to tell the story. I’m here for a reason."

More Information CSL Behring for Bleeding Disorders Key Issues Dialogue: von Willebrand Disease All About Bleeding Web site

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With proper diagnosis and the use of coagulation factor VIII for her factor replacement therapy, Myra Hanson's life changed—all for the better.

Myra, a wife and mother of two living in Colorado, USA, always suspected something was wrong with her. It took almost 40 years and several different doctors before she learned she had von Willebrand disease (VWD). People with VWD either do not have enough of a certain blood clotting protein (von Willebrand factor, or VWF), or the factor is faulty. Though VWD is the most common inherited bleeding disorder in the world, many doctors are not familiar with it.

Myra's first memorable bleeding experience occurred at age four when she had a tonsillectomy. It seemed to take her forever to recover. She began to develop serious bruises from mild falls, and was tested several times for leukemia. Once, when doctors tried to drain fluid from Myra's knee, they discovered the fluid was blood because she was having a joint bleed. When Myra started menstruating at age 16, her periods would last over two weeks. She was often treated for anemia. Myra needed a transfusion each time she had a surgical procedure. At age 29, she had a hysterectomy and almost died from internal hemorrhaging.

Despite these severe warning signs, Myra remained undiagnosed. She explained her bleeding history to her doctor and was tested for VWD. But the test showed a false negative—a very common outcome, especially when a hematologist is not involved in the testing process. Eventually, she was referred to a hematologist, who diagnosed Myra's von Willebrand disease. Other family members were tested, and her son was discovered to have VWD as well; she suspects that her mother and grandparents also have the disease.

Today, Myra uses coagulation factor VIII, a factor replacement therapy, to replace the missing VWF in her blood. "If I have a hard fall or have surgery or a procedure of any kind, I infuse it. I don't have anxiety 'going in' for anything," Myra said. Myra is now able to enjoy her life without the stress and doubt that were once her constant companions.

She enjoys softball, writing, and sewing—and is passionate about education. She plans to go back to school now that her children are grown. Myra said, "Coagulation factor VIII has been just awesome for me. It changed my life. I don't worry—it takes all the worry away."