If you've been reading HemoTalk, most likely you've noticed the amazing accomplishments of those with bleeding disorders, such as sword fighting, biking, professional bodybuilding, and more. Among those accomplishments is Grullon, a 17-year-old hemophiliac, and wrestler. While wrestling is rated a 3 (meaning High Risk), on the National Hemophilia Foundation's Playing-It-Safe Table of Activity Ratings chart, Grullon said that his bleeding disorder had "very little" effect on his decision to wrestle. Grullon does say that although he has a great interest in the sport, he is still, "very careful" in terms of injuries, while having a tough mindset.
Grullon has undergone physical therapy and is taking medication prophylactically. He has been very fortunate with his overall bleeding episodes being "next to none," and says that through experience he learned to take care of himself: "I learned my limits and how to take care of myself throughout this process." He enjoys wrestling because "you get a super strong body and mentality from it," which individuals with bleeding disorders know are essential traits to have. Strong joints and muscles are imperative for a hemophiliac to have because obesity and a loss of bone density can be extremely harmful.
Being mentally strong is also a challenge for hemophiliacs, as constant infusions, inhibitors, bleeding, and more can weigh down on a person. Mental health is gaining recognition in the hemophilia community, such as on August 23rd the Hemophilia Federation of America (HFA) started offering mental health courses under its Health and Wellness Center.
Still, Grullon would, "ONLY recommend wrestling if you know you can recover if something happens... and if your hemophiliac would only recommend it if you don't have a history of constant bleeds." He does although say to "infuse 4 times a week, 3 for the 5 days of practice and one for the duel meets," and to take care on the days without medicine. As stated before, Grullon recommends to "stretch a lot and have strong joints from exercise." Be sure to contact and discuss with your hematologist or treatment center BEFORE partaking in any physical exercise or sporting activity.
Ultimately, Grullon carries the traits of living his life and strength both physically and mentally. He tells hemophiliacs "that if were in the right health and take care of our body more then the average person then we can do just as much but" know your limits, "The average person is 2 steps ahead on there safety but you have to be 6 steps ahead."
Also Read:
*Grullon is not his real name.*
Be sure to contact and discuss with your hematologist or treatment center BEFORE partaking in any physical exercise or sporting activity.
Comments