Boy Stories – Why sit it out

Meet those who won't sit it out

Having haemophilia doesn’t need to stop you taking part in sports and activities but we know it can make things more challenging.

Meet Ross, Paul, Ishmael, Joshua, James and Henry – six young people with haemophilia who don’t let it stand in their way. Here they share their stories in their own words.

Age 25 - Cycling

Ross

Twenty-five-year-old Ross has haemophilia B and is passionate about cycling. Here, he talks about how cycling gives him a sense of freedom, allowing him to escape from the world and forget about any worries.

Age 9 - Archery

Henry

Nine-year-old Henry, who has haemophilia A, loves swimming and cycling, but he's always on the lookout for new activities. Here, he talks about how he's getting faster and stronger every day.

Age 17 - Cricket

Paul

When Paul saw his older brother practising in the nets as a child, he knew cricket was what he wanted to do. Fast-forward more than a decade, and a 17-year-old Paul is a high performing player for his county... who happens to have severe haemophilia A.

Age 13 - Rock Climbing

Ishmael

Thirteen-year-old Ishmael has severe haemophilia B. He's hugely passionate about climbing, which he first discovered at a local club. Here, he talks about why haemophilia won't hold him back.

Age 12 - Cycling

Joshua

Joshua is 12 years old, and has severe haemophilia A. Here, he talks about overcoming an illness to fulfil his ambition to master riding a bike.

Age 9 - Golf

James

At just nine, James is already playing nine holes of golf in competitions against older boys. He has haemophilia A and his stamina is improving all the time, along with his skills.