Skip to main content

About Clots
Patient Resources
Health Professionals
News
Get Involved
Advocacy
About Us
Programs & Services
- Taking a Breath: A Stop the Clot Podcast
Shop
Contact Us

MENUMENU

About Us
Programs & Services
Contact Us
Shop

Search for:

MENUMENU

About Clots
Patient Resources
Health Professionals
News
Get Involved
Advocacy
About Us
Programs & Services
- Taking a Breath: A Stop the Clot Podcast
Shop
Contact Us

Home / Share Your Loved One’s Blood Clot Story

Share Your Loved One’s Blood Clot Story

About 100,000 Americans die every year from blood clots, and their lives deserve to be remembered and celebrated. If you have a loved one who has experienced a fatal pulmonary embolism, we would be honored to share their story.

Questions? Contact jlawson@stoptheclot.org

Loved One's Story Submission Form

"*" indicates required fields

Your first name*

Your last name*

Your email*

Your loved one's first name*

Your loved one's last name*

Where did your loved one live?*

City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country

What is your relationship to your loved one?

(Spouse, child, parent, sibling, etc.)

Please share your loved one's blood clot experience*

Did they have any risk factors that may have contributed to their blood clotting experience?*

e.g., estrogen-based birth control, long travel, surgery, hospitalization, etc.

What was their diagnosis?*

e.g., DVT, PE, factor v Leiden, etc.

Choose your loved one's age range when first diagnosed.*

17 or under

18-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

56-64

65 and above

Which race or ethnicity best describes your loved one? Please check all that apply.*

American Indian or Alaskan Native

Asian / Pacific Islander

Black or African American

Hispanic

White / Caucasian

Prefer not to answer

Other

Which gender best describes your loved one?*

Woman

Man

Transgender woman

Transgender man

Non-binary

Prefer not to answer

Did your loved one have a blood clotting disorder?

Yes

No

I don't know

If yes, what was their blood clotting disorder?*

If they had a clotting disorder, have their family members been tested? If so, what have they learned from these test results?

How has your loved one's experience with blood clots impacted your life?*

Tell us about your loved one. Feel free to share who they were as a person. What made them special?*

What are your social media handles? (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter)

What advice would you like to give to others?*

Clotiversary Date (if applicable)

MM slash DD slash YYYY

Upload a photo of your loved one in .JPG or .PNG format.*

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif, Max. file size: 64 MB.

Upload a photo of your loved one in .JPG or .PNG format.*

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif, Max. file size: 64 MB.

Upload a photo of your loved one in .JPG or .PNG format.*

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif, Max. file size: 64 MB.

Upload a photo of your loved one in .JPG or .PNG format.*

Accepted file types: jpg, jpeg, png, gif, Max. file size: 64 MB.

Consent*

I have read and agreed to NBCA’s Release Form*

I understand that by submitting this form I agree to allow the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) to use the information, photo and or video that I am voluntarily submitting as outlined in the Release Form.

Would like to receive communications from the National Blood Clot Alliance?*

Yes

No

Email

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Current News

NL (2500 x 900 px) (3)

Pro Runner Sage Canaday Named Coach of Team Stop the Clot® for 2025 NYC Marathon

The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) is thrilled to welcome professional runner and pulmonary embolism survivor Sage Canaday as Coach…

Get the full story »

MyMichigan Medical Center-Midland

NBCA Designates a Michigan Hospital as First DVT Center of Excellence™ in the U.S.

NBCA is honored to announce MyMichigan Medical Center Midland as the first hospital in the U.S. to be designated a…

Get the full story »

Get more news »

Follow us on Instagram

stoptheclot

Advancing blood clot awareness, prevention, diagnosis & treatments to #stoptheclot. Submit your story @ link below ⬇️ Our podcast: Taking a Breath 🎙️

It’s a wrap on our National Hydration Day giveaw

It’s a wrap on our National Hydration Day giveaway, and we have our winners! 🎉

Congratulations to Tracy, Colleen, and Katelyn, who will each receive a 32oz. stainless steel NBCA water bottle to help them stay hydrated and #StopTheHot this summer!

Even though the giveaway is over, the message remains: Staying hydrated is an important step in reducing your risk for blood clots. Drink up and stay safe! 💧

#stoptheclot #stopthehot #nationalhydrationday #bloodclots #stayhydrated #bloodclotprevention #bloodcloteducation #bloodclotawareness #drinkmorewater

We’re honored to spotlight Arshell Brooks‑Harr $We’re honored to spotlight Arshell Brooks‑Harris, NBCA’s dedicated Board Secretary, and her husband Andre Harris, whose tireless support has strengthened our mission in countless ways. Based in New York City, Arshell became involved with NBCA after her eldest daughter, Leschel, died of a pulmonary embolism in 2020 following a fractured ankle. Since then, Arshell and Andre have become a powerhouse duo in the fight against blood clots. They both serve as NBCA Thrombassadors, engaging directly with their local community to share Leschel’s story and educate others about clot risks and symptoms. Their work goes far beyond their local community, though. For example, in March, they took part in NBCA’s advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and met with Congressional offices about increasing funding for blood clot awareness and education. The following day, they started a month-long, 1,650-mile trip bringing life-saving information about blood clots to predominantly Black communities across the Southern U.S. Now, Arshell and Andre are preparing for their annual summer barbecue and awareness event in memory of Leschel. “Before Leschel’s passing, I didn’t know a PE could be fatal,” Arshell says. “Now, every event, every connection, is to honor her legacy and protect others.” Thank you, Arshell and Andre, for your heartfelt dedication and advocacy.$

Today is National PTSD Awareness Day — a reminde

Today is National PTSD Awareness Day — a reminder that trauma isn’t always visible.

Many blood clot survivors face lasting psychological effects, but mental health is often left out of the recovery conversation.

In 2021, NBCA conducted the largest-ever survey on the emotional impact of blood clots. The CLUES study (Critical Look at Understanding the Emotional Suffering of Blood Clot Survivors) gathered insights from more than 3,300 survivors, highlighting the urgent need to support both body and mind.

Let’s change the way we talk about recovery. Learn more and explore resources: 🔗 in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #nationalptsdday #ptsd #posttraumaticstressdisorder #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #bloodclotsurvivor

Connie was active and healthy when pelvic pain and

Connie was active and healthy when pelvic pain and fatigue led to a life-threatening diagnosis: a massive DVT, multiple PEs, and May-Thurner syndrome just weeks after switching to estrogen-based birth control.

Now on blood thinners, she’s navigating a tough recovery and anxiety, but she’s grateful for the support helping her move forward.

🔗More stories: Link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolism #DeepVeinThrombosis #MayThurnerSyndrome

🏅Countdown to race day! In November, Team Stop

🏅Countdown to race day! In November, Team Stop the Clot will hit the streets for 2025 TCS New York City Marathon and their training is in high gear.

Over the next five months, we’re introducing you to the inspiring runners who are clocking the miles, sharing their stories, and raising funds for NBCA.

🏃‍♀️ Kelly Moon of West Point, Iowa shares why she’s running for Team Stop the Clot:

“After my mother’s death from a PE, the National Blood Clot Alliance has helped me turn my anxiety, anger, and tragedy into hope, strength, and perseverance. My goal for completing this marathon is to use my newly founded hope, strength, and perseverance to help save lives by spreading blood clot awareness.”

🔗Support Kelly’s fundraiser for NBCA at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #teamstoptheclot #bloodclots #nycmarathon #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotprevention

We're thrilled to welcome Gerald “Gerry” Tracy

We're thrilled to welcome Gerald “Gerry” Tracy, JD, MPH, to NBCA’s Board of Directors!

A public health attorney, VTE, and longtime advocate, Gerry brings decades of experience in healthcare innovation and a deeply personal commitment to preventing blood clots.

After losing multiple family members to blood clots and facing his own diagnosis, Gerry became a powerful force for change, advocating for research, awareness, and better care for families like his.

We're honored to have his voice and leadership guiding our work. Welcome, Gerry!

Read Gerry’s story: 🔗in bio.

#StopTheClot #VTE #NBCABoard #BloodClotAdvocacy #BloodClots

🥵 It’s National Hydration Day! Not only that,

🥵 It’s National Hydration Day! Not only that, parts of the country are experiencing sweltering temperatures, so it’s a perfect time to talk about the role fluids play in blood clot prevention.

When we don't consume enough fluids, our blood can become more prone to clotting. Dehydration reduces the volume of water in our blood, making it easier for platelets and other blood cells to stick together and form clots.

To help promote hydration and #StopTheHot, we’re giving away three of our 32oz. stainless steel NBCA water bottles!

🔗Just go to the link in bio, enter your name and email between now and 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, June 26 for a chance to win.

#stoptheclot #stopthehot #nationalhydrationday #bloodclots #stayhydrated #bloodclotprevention

💗We've officially hit 10,000 members in our blo

💗We've officially hit 10,000 members in our blood clot support group, a bittersweet milestone.

In just a few short years, this community has become a lifeline for thousands affected by blood clots. Every member represents a story—of survival, loss, and strength—and a reminder of how urgently awareness and prevention are still needed.

As Todd Robertson, the group’s admin, shares:

“While it warms my heart to see so many people finding comfort and connection, it also reminds me of the work still ahead when it comes to prevention. As a seven-time blood clot survivor myself, I know how important these connections are. NBCA has been a lifeline for me, just as it’s been for countless others.”

This isn’t just a number. It’s 10,000 people lifting each other up, every single day.

If you're one of them, we’d love to hear from you. Share in the comments how this group has helped you feel seen, supported, or understood.

🔗If you haven’t joined yet, we’d love to have you: bit.ly/BloodClotSupportGroup (link in bio)

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #BloodClotSupportGroup #BloodClotRecovery

Just weeks after getting married, Kassandra tragic

Just weeks after getting married, Kassandra tragically passed away due to a blood clot following routine knee surgery.

Despite following all recovery instructions and being aware of blood clot risks, her condition progressed quickly, and she didn’t make it to the hospital.

Blood clots can happen to anyone, even young, healthy people, and they can become life-threatening in minutes.

Sending our condolences to Danny and everyone who knew Kassandra.

@midwest_meditations_

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #DVT #DeepVeinThrombosis #PE #PulmonaryEmbolism #BloodClotFatality #OrthopedicSurgery #KneeSurgery

After days of unexplained leg pain and shortness o

After days of unexplained leg pain and shortness of breath, Karla was misdiagnosed with a muscle cramp and told to get a massage. Days later at a second hospital, she was diagnosed with a PE caused by a DVT in her calf.

The source: supplemental estrogen prescribed for perimenopausal symptoms.

Karla’s story underscores the importance of listening to your body and pushing for answers. It could make all the difference.

More stories: Link in bio.

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #PulmonaryEmbolism #DeepVeinThrombosis #Estrogen

🧦 Compression socks are having a moment! As hi

🧦 Compression socks are having a moment!

As highlighted in Business Insider, more Millennials and Gen Zers are using compression wear to support circulation, ease soreness, and stay proactive about their health.

For people with a history of DVT, compression socks can also be an important tool for managing symptoms like pain and swelling.

Want to learn more about how and when to use compression?

🗓️ Join our next PEP Talk on Tuesday, July 8 at 7 p.m. ET with Dr. Suman Wasan of @UNC.

We’ll cover the latest in compression therapy and answer your questions. Don’t miss it! Register and read the @BusinessInsider piece at the link in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #compression #compressionsocks #deepveinthrombosis #dvt #bloodclotawareness #bloodcloteducation

Karen D. Adams, who coordinates health equity prog

Karen D. Adams, who coordinates health equity programs at the National Blood Clot Alliance, was featured in Pride Magazine NC for sharing her journey surviving multiple pulmonary emboli.

“I turned my pain into purpose,” she said, describing how her near-death experience led her to advocacy.

Blood clot risk is disproportionately higher in Black Americans—up to 60% more—and Karen is working to close that gap through education and outreach.

She’s leading efforts like NBCA’s Stop the Clot B.L.A.C.K. Church Bus Tour—Black Lives Advocating for Clot Knowledge—which brought life-saving information directly to underserved communities throughout the South during March for Blood Clot Awareness Month.

“We were able to reach and teach so many people,” she said of the Charlotte stop, where volunteers literally saved a life.

Stay tuned for more details as NBCA continues its work to empower and protect those most at risk.

This Juneteenth, we honor the freedom to live fully, and the right to health education that helps make that possible.

#stoptheclot #juneteenth #freedomday #bloodclotawareness #pridencmagazine #healthinequities #healthdisparities

Today is Juneteenth, the anniversary of the day in

Today is Juneteenth, the anniversary of the day in 1865 when Union troops freed the last group of enslaved Black Americans.

This holiday is not only a celebration of freedom. It’s also a time to shine a light on the work that needs to be done in terms of healthcare equity and access.

Did you know that Black blood clot patients are 11% more likely to die compared to white patients?

Urgent attention is needed to better understand how factors such as structural racism and socioeconomic differences may affect a person’s access to care, as well as clinical decision-making once patients arrive at the hospital.

Read more about Black Americans and blood clots: link in bio.

#stoptheclot #juneteenth #juneteenth2025 #freedomday #bloodclotawareness #bloodclotprevention #healthinequities #healthdisparities

Los Angeles Rams starting offensive tackle Alaric

Los Angeles Rams starting offensive tackle Alaric Jackson is the latest professional athlete to be diagnosed with blood clots.

Deep vein thrombosis sidelined Jackson in 2022. He’s currently dealing with a recurrence, months after he signed a 3-year, $57 million contract extension.

Jackson’s recurrence reminds us that blood clots can happen to anyone, including young, healthy, high-performing athletes.

He joins a growing list of NFL players affected by blood clots, including Trey Smith of the Kansas City Chiefs and Christian Barmore of the New England Patriots.

NBCA wishes him a speedy recovery!

#StopTheClot #LosAngelesRams #AlaricJackson #Football #AthletesAndBloodClots @NFL @Rams @big.aj77

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️Season 2, Episod

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️Season 2, Episode 10 of Taking a Breath: A Stop the Clot podcast is now available on all major podcast platforms.

In this episode, listeners hear from Charly Barby, Dallas Cowboys cheerleader and cast member of the Netflix documentary series, “America’s Sweethearts.” (Season 2 of the series starts today, by the way!)

She was preparing to audition for the team when she woke up to a sudden, unfamiliar pain.

“I had absolutely excruciating pain in my left side — my ribcage, my back, all the way up from my shoulder to hipbone,” Charly said. “As a dancer, I was always taught to push through the pain … I chose to ignore it.”

When she could no longer ignore the pain, she drove herself to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism with lung infarction.

“I did not realize how extremely life-threatening this is and how it’s literally a silent killer and nobody really talks about it,” Charly said.

Thank you, Charly, for bravely sharing your story and helping raise awareness. Listen to her journey at the link in bio or wherever you get your podcasts.

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #PE #PulmonaryEmbolism #VTE #TakingABreath #BloodClotPodcast #BloodClotSurvivorStory #FactorVLeiden #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #DCC #AmericasSweethearts #Netflix

🏅Countdown to race day! In November, Team Stop

🏅Countdown to race day! In November, Team Stop the Clot will hit the streets for 2025 TCS New York City Marathon and their training is in high gear.

Over the next five months, we’re introducing you to the inspiring runners who are clocking the miles, sharing their stories, and raising funds for NBCA.

🏃‍♀️ Jennifer Gerlach of Chicago shares why she’s running for Team Stop the Clot:

“The work NBCA does to spread awareness and educate both the public and healthcare professionals is critical and life-saving. By supporting my marathon journey, you're helping fund efforts that empower people with knowledge and prevent tragedies like Anna’s."

"Every mile I run and every dollar we raise brings us one step closer to a future where more people can recognize the warning signs, get the help they need, and live full, healthy lives.”

Support Jennifer’s marathon fundraiser for NBCA: Donate: 🔗 in bio

@NYRR

👀 We’re sharing a sneak peek of our next podc

👀 We’re sharing a sneak peek of our next podcast episode featuring Charly Barby, a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and cast member of the Netflix documentary series “America’s Sweethearts.”

Charly was a few days from auditioning for the team when she experienced a pulmonary embolism.

Despite this setback, her audition was successful, and now she’s committed to spreading awareness of blood clots.

“I always think, what if I had waited one more day? Would I still be here?” she said. “Spreading awareness as to what the symptoms are is so, so important because it truly could save someone’s life.”

The episode drops TOMORROW. Listen to the full episode at the 🔗 in bio or wherever you get your podcasts.

@charly.barby @dccheerleaders @netflix

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #PE #PulmonaryEmbolism #VTE #TakingABreath #BloodClotPodcast #BloodClotSurvivorStory #FactorVLeiden #DallasCowboysCheerleaders #DCC #AmericasSweethearts #Netflix

For the last two years, we’ve hosted PEP Talks o

For the last two years, we’ve hosted PEP Talks on blood clots and compression with Dr. Suman Wasan of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Now, we’re gearing up for our third annual discussion on compression on Tuesday, July 8 at 7 p.m. ET. Dr. Wasan will be back to answer more questions and discuss the latest approaches in compression therapy.

Blood clot survivors: You won’t want to miss this! Register: 🔗 in bio.

#stoptheclot #bloodclots #compression #compressionsocks #deepveinthrombosis #dvt #bloodclotawareness #bloodcloteducation

After surgery, Eugene developed a DVT that later t

After surgery, Eugene developed a DVT that later traveled to his lungs. Known for his role in the 1990 comedy ‘House Party,’ Eugene was also a devoted father, husband, and gifted artist. To his daughter, he was everything.

“Since his passing, my whole world has changed. Tomorrow is never promised.” 💔

@corlanqdo

#StopTheClot #StopTheClotStory #BloodClots #DVT #DeepVeinThrombosis #PE #PulmonaryEmbolism #BloodClotFatality #MensHealthMonth

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads, d

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads, dads-to-be, and father figures! NBCA wishes you a joyful and healthy day.

On this special day, let's recognize the vital role fathers play in safeguarding their family's health. One important topic to consider is genetic testing for blood clotting disorders.

Genetic testing can uncover inherited risk factors for blood clots, like factor V Leiden or prothrombin gene mutations. Understanding these risks can be crucial in preventing life-threatening blood clots.

However, testing is not always recommended and comes with its own set of pros and cons. It's essential to follow guidelines and make informed decisions that align with your family's needs.

Fathers, initiating this conversation could be a significant step towards protecting your loved ones' health.

Learn more: 🔗in bio.

#StopTheClot #BloodClots #VTE #FathersDay #GeneticTesting #BloodClottingDisorder

Load More Follow on Instagram

Keep up with the latest news and events

"*" indicates required fields

First name*

Last name*

Email*

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Clotiversary Date (if applicable)

MM slash DD slash YYYY

First date of your blood clot diagnosis

Email

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

About Us
Contact Us
Privacy Policy

Contact Info

Phone: 703.935.8845
Toll Free: 877.4.NO CLOT

National Blood Clot Alliance
PO Box 825687
Philadelphia, PA 19182-5687

Follow Us

Twitter
Facebook
Email
YouTube
Pinterest
Instagram

Disclaimer

NBCA provides the information and materials on this site for general information purposes only. You should not rely on the information provided as a substitute for actual professional medical advice, care, or treatment. This site is not designed to and does not provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment, or services to you or any individual. If you believe you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.