5 elite athletes prove inspiring as they defy hemophilia’s limits

Originally published on Hemophilia News Today by BioNews, Inc.

Breaking barriers through sports in the documentary 'Redefining Impossible'

In 1975, when I was diagnosed with hemophilia B and von Willebrand disease, my dreams of participating in sports were soon shattered. I was barred from dance, cheerleading, and even gym class. My high school’s athletic director also barred me from joining the varsity swim team, concerned that its rigorous workouts might jeopardize my health. At that time, I had no treatment options available to me except for when I had emergencies or surgeries.

Last weekend, my perspective on the limitations of bleeding disorders underwent a profound shift as I watched “Redefining Impossible,” a 40-minute documentary (available online) that chronicles the remarkable journeys of five elite athletes living with hemophilia. Witnessing their stories left me in awe of the progress we’ve made since my own diagnosis.

Despite being told they couldn’t participate in sports because of their conditions, these athletes share an unwavering passion for their activities. They endure injuries and defy the odds to redefine what’s possible for people with hemophilia.

The athletes The documentary introduces us to five remarkable people:

Hazri Aris, an open-water swimmer from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, finds solace in the water, where his body feels less pain. Jessica Page, a former rugby player from Oxford, England, battles the medical community’s misconceptions about women and bleeding disorders. Anthony Pezzillo, a fourth-degree black belt and coach from Rhode Island, finds his strength in martial arts. Riccardo Ramirez, an ultrarunner from California (originally from Mexico), conquers enormous distances. Elijah Warren, a former elite swimmer from Colorado, excels in the water. I felt a profound connection with the athletes as I watched their journeys unfold. Aris’ connection to the water resonated with me because of my affinity for it. Page’s experience of battling hemophilia and von Willebrand disease while struggling with doctors to take her bleeding problems seriously mirrored my own challenges. Pezzillo’s diagnosis following a tonsillectomy was similar to my story and a powerful reminder that my path to this disease was not unique.

I was captivated, hanging on every word, and left craving more. The stories of these inspiring athletes were so compelling that I yearned for a follow-up, hoping to witness their continued journeys someday.

At the heart of this documentary is Patrick James Lynch, CEO and founder of Believe Limited and an executive producer of “Redefining Impossible.” Lynch, who battles severe hemophilia A, channels his experiences into advocacy, honoring his late brother, Adam, through his work in bleeding disorders.

“Redefining Impossible” became a reality thanks to the support of Sanofi U.S., further highlighting the significance of the progress being made in the treatment and understanding of hemophilia.

The documentary serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of these elite athletes, who’ve all overcome the challenges of hemophilia to achieve greatness in their respective sports. It stands as a testament to the remarkable progress we’ve made. Their stories remind us all that with determination and support, we can redefine boundaries and make the impossible, possible.