Across America: On the Road to Independence
JD Westbrook had big dreams of taking a trip on his dad's big rig. But not knowing how to self-infuse kept him from long hauls on the 18-wheeler. Then, the lure of a two-week road trip during his summer break presented itself. He'd gone on short trips before, but a two-week trip was out of the question since his mom, Tammy, had always administered his factor replacement. So JD took action and decided it was time to learn.
JD, who is 12 years old, first told his parents about his decision. Then he spoke with Gina Stack, nurse coordinator at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, who coached JD through the process and trained his dad, David, how to infuse JD as well.
What followed was a fun four-state trip with his dad that included stops in North Carolina, Virginia and South Carolina. He and his dad slept in bunk beds in the truck. He watched his favorite movies DragonballZ and Dr. Dolittle on his TV/VCR.
Since JD can self infuse, he has found additional benefits. "I have a lot more freedom to do more stuff, like staying at camp and my grandma's house longer." He has also become more confident about managing his hemophilia. JD takes responsibility for making sure he has a healthy run by stretching thoroughly beforehand to help his knees and ankles. "He's doing it himself," says his mom Tammy.
"I think it feels good for him to treat himself. He's taken on more responsibility. We are proud of him. His sisters think it's neat that he does it himself. His aunts and uncles are proud of him. He will be a role model to his 1-year-old nephew who has hemophilia."
When he's not on the 18-wheeler, this seventh grader enjoys school (science is his favorite subject), running cross-country, playing video games and watching favorite movies. He is interested in animation of health materials and cartoons.
JD's advice to other kids about self-infusion is to take time to think it over. "If you want to do it, it's worth it."
If you want to learn to self-infuse, talk with your folks and to the team at your treatment center. You're taking a big step in becoming more responsible for your own health and self care.
Read more Cincinnati Children's patient stories.
