Mission
The Gateway Bleeding Disorders Association is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to the advocacy, education and support of families affected by bleeding disorders.
History
Our organization was formed in 1969 as the Bi-State Hemophilia Association. In 1987 we changed our name to the Greater St. Louis Hemophilia Association, then in 1999 to Gateway Hemophilia Association. In 2025 we changed our name to Gateway Bleeding Disorders Association. This name represents the diverse community we serve including individuals affected by hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and platelet disorders. We serve families in eastern Missouri and southern Illinois. Click for a map of our Missouri service area and Illinois service area.
Some of our members have been around since the beginning; others are new to the Association. But we all share the common bonds of advocacy, activity and mutual support.
Why We Serve Them
Bleeding disorders are life-threatening, debilitating, and expensive to treat. A child with severe Hemophilia will spend over $200,000 annually to prevent bleeding. Some children and adults build up inhibitors to the treatment and the costs can exceed $1,000,000 per year. Failure to preventatively treat the disorder can result in prolonged, painful bleeds that cause permanent and severe damage. Access to affordable and adequate health care is critical to being a self-sufficient, contributing member of society.
The entire family is affected by the bleeding disorder physically, emotionally, and financially. With over 50 years of experience, we provide programs and services to people affected by bleeding disorders so that they can better cope and can become advocates for themselves and/or their family. We partner with Hemophilia Treatment Centers, other agencies, and medical professionals to provide programs and services unique to those with bleeding disorders to best meet their needs.
How We Serve Them?
The Gateway Bleeding Disorders Association strives to meet the needs of those affected by a bleeding disorder through several programs and services. These include educational scholarships, emergency financial assistance, summer camp, Family Education Weekend, and support groups for men, women, teens, and new families.
Historical Journey of Bleeding Disorders
Click here to see GBD’s endorsement as an accredited Charity by the Better Business Bureau.
