In an effort to bring young volunteers into the CHS, and in recognition that a sound education is of utmost importance particularly for those who might not be able to succeed in a vocation requiring strenuous physical labour, the CHS offers the opportunity for those who qualify to receive a scholarship (based on academic merit) or bursary (based on financial need or for mature students over 30 years of age) in the amount of $5,000 each to attend a post-secondary institution of their choice.
The CHS James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Program is an ongoing tribute to honour James Kreppner, a longtime past volunteer and member of the CHS Board of Directors, for his dedication, intelligence and commitment to the CHS and community service.
In 2022, the CHS was pleased to award $5,000 scholarship and bursaries to three outstanding recipients.
At the age of 4, I was diagnosed with mild hemophilia type A. Hemophilia interacted with my other health conditions in beneficial ways. Born with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, I suffered from several strokes and have a large vascular birthmark. These strokes limited my early motor and communication abilities. Hemophilia protected me from some strokes, creating a delicate balance. In spring 2020, I developed an inhibitor against factor VIII, changing my life. Since then, I have had several significant bleeds and take factor regularly to maintain my health.
As a child with hemophilia, I felt different from others and kept to myself. I gained a strong interest in learning new things, and a strong intuition to help others like me. These skills serve me well as I complete a Bachelor of Education degree. For me, being a teacher means supporting all students to have success regardless of who they are on the inside or outside. My own disabilities benefit me, helping me see the best in everyone regardless of their health, experiences or appearance. I am very grateful to receive the James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship. Receiving the scholarship helps me create a world that is accepting of all people, regardless of ability.
Both of my sons were diagnosed with hemophilia A, one at a young age and one before birth. It came as a bit of a shock as my wife thought that hemophilia had left the family when her late uncle passed away. Raising young children with hemophilia has been a challenge, but also a blessing. We’ve met such wonderful people and now have close bonds with others in our PEI Chapter of the CHS. It’s such an amazing community of strong individuals. I was so honoured to have been chosen as a recipient of the James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship, as an older student; it will give me peace of mind knowing I can spend more time focusing on my studies for Wildlife Conservation Technology at Holland College and less time worrying about affordability. Thank you so much to the CHS and all its supporters for giving me this opportunity. My family and I will continue to give back to the community that has supported us over these years.
At 24 years old, only after having a hysterectomy due to severe bleeding, I was diagnosed with von Willebrand disease. Before being diagnosed, I suffered from major bleeding issues and bruising, causing me to be hospitalized numerous times receiving blood transfusions. Shortly after finding out about my diagnosis, my family chose to get tested as some of my family members had some of the same symptoms. My father turned out to be a carrier, and my daughter ended up also being diagnosed. Over the last 13 years, I have shared my story to educate others and advocate for my daughter.
At 36, I made a choice to attend CDI college to obtain my Accounting & Payroll Diploma to further my career opportunities. I am filled with gratitude that I have been chosen to be the recipient of the 2022 James Kreppner Memorial Mature Student Bursary. This bursary will help alleviate some of the financial stresses of being a mature student. Thank you to the Canadian Hemophilia Society and the James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Program.
Additional information including the criteria and application forms for the CHS James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Program is available on the website at www.hemophilia.ca/james-kreppner-scholarship-and-memorial-program. The deadline for submission of completed applications and supporting documents is April 30 of any given year.
