NBDF's 2024 Awards Ceremony Honors Outstanding Contributions and Dedication

Oct 9, 2024

Celebrating Excellence in the Bleeding Disorders Community

The Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta buzzed with anticipation as the bleeding disorders community gathered for the pinnacle of the 2024 Bleeding Disorders Conference: The National Bleeding Disorders Foundation's (NBDF) Awards of Excellence ceremony. This night was more than just a distribution of accolades; it was a celebration of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to improving lives.

Honoring a Lifetime of Achievement

The evening's highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was presented to Dr. Michael Tarantino. Matt McClain, who submitted this nomination, praised Dr. Tarantino's dedication: "He has devoted his life to improving the lives of individuals with bleeding disorders—helping them live longer, healthier lives while empowering them to become their own advocates. Dr. Tarantino remains a trailblazer in advancing new innovations and research."

A patient testimonial further emphasized Dr. Tarantino's impact: "Dr. Tarantino is THE best hematologist in the country if not further... He saved my life when others thought it was unsavable. He is an incredible doctor."

A Family’s Mission

Scott and Kim Martin, private investors from Houston, Texas, have been named Philanthropists of the Year. Their journey into bleeding disorders advocacy began with a personal connection: their son's diagnosis with severe hemophilia. This experience sparked a passion that has driven their philanthropic efforts, leading Scott to co-found Inspiration Biopharmaceutical, a company dedicated to developing innovative treatments for bleeding disorders.

The Martins' impact extends far beyond financial contributions. Scott, the former Chair of the NBDF Board, has leveraged his business acumen to benefit the community, serving on multiple nonprofit and corporate boards, including Martin Midstream Partners, which he co-founded. Together, Scott and Kim have become powerful advocates, engaging in awareness campaigns, research initiatives, and support programs. Their story exemplifies how personal challenges can be transformed into a mission to help others, embodying the spirit of compassion and action that drives progress in the fight against bleeding disorders.

Recognizing Excellence Across the Field

The ceremony honored individuals across various disciplines who have made significant contributions to the bleeding disorders community:

Advocate of the Year: Kate Bazinsky was recognized for her leadership in advocating for access to substance disorders and mental health treatment facilities for individuals with bleeding disorders.
Genetic Counselor of the Year: Hannah Helber, MS, CGC, honored for her service to patients and families, leadership in hematology genetic counseling, and dedication to education in the field.
Lived Experience Expert of the Year: Sammie Valadez was recognized for her outstanding contributions in translating personal experiences with bleeding disorders into meaningful improvements in research and care.
Nurse of the Year: Donna Cardi, RN, BSN, was honored for her compassionate care and ability to empower patients and families.
Physical Therapist of the Year: Jennifer Newman, PT, MSPT honored for her exceptional service to the bleeding disorders community, leadership in HTC physical therapy, and dedication to improving patient care beyond her daily responsibilities.
Physician of the Year: Dr. Mark Reding was celebrated for his passion, mentorship, and clinical excellence in the field of bleeding disorders.
Researcher of the Year: Dr. Paul Monahan received the Dr. Murry Thelin Researcher of the Year award for his groundbreaking work in hemophilia gene therapy.
Social Worker of the Year: Kathaleen Schnur, MSW, LCSW, was recognized for her dedication to understanding and addressing the psychosocial needs of patients with bleeding disorders.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The Ryan White Youth Award was presented to Gabi Flores, by none other than Jeanne White-Ginder, advocate and mother of Ryan White, a national symbol of the blood and bleeding disorders community. Gabi, a volunteer and advocate has inspired many in the community. "Her commitment to spreading awareness about rare bleeding disorders and sharing her own experiences while listening to others' stories has been invaluable," noted Bridget Tyrey in her nomination.

Jeremy Griffin received the Ziggy Douglas Innovation in Youth Programming Award for his creative and engaging approach to working with teens in the bleeding disorders community. Jessica Graham, in her nomination, highlighted Jeremy's unique ability to "challenge the teens to reflect and share, while always being respectful and encouraging."

A Smile That Changed Lives

In a touching tribute to a life dedicated to service, the NBDF posthumously awarded Joey Smiles the Chapter of the Year honor. Joey's legacy in the bleeding disorders community is one of unwavering commitment and profound impact. Known for his "unparalleled dedication" and "tireless advocacy," Joey was a constant presence at every advocacy event, his boundless spirit inspiring all who knew him.

Joey's selfless devotion to the bleeding disorders community went beyond mere participation; he embodied the very essence of compassion and determination. Even after his passing, Joey's influence continues to resonate, encouraging others to face life's challenges with courage and resilience. This award not only celebrates Joey's remarkable contributions but also serves as a poignant reminder of how one individual's passion can ignite a movement of hope and change that endures long after they're gone.

Community Impact and Humanitarian Efforts

The Mary M. Gooley Humanitarian of the Year Award went to Dr. Craig Hooper for his impactful work at the CDC's Division of Blood Disorders. Johanna Gray praised his efforts in rebuilding trust and partnerships within the community, noting, "Craig has made a huge impact on the bleeding disorders community through developing programs to serve people living with sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and thrombophilia."

Looking to the Future

NBDF CEO Phil Gattone concluded the evening with an inspiring speech, emphasizing the community's unity and shared vision. "As we leave here tonight, I encourage all of us to continue supporting one another, to push the boundaries of what's possible, and to never lose sight of the importance and strength of one voice, one community. Stronger together," Gattone said.

The ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the collective strength of the bleeding disorders community. It set an optimistic tone for future advancements in care, research, and advocacy for those affected by bleeding disorders.

The 2024 Awards of Excellence Winners