By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Jason Kelley and his 9-year-old son Jaxson were present when Gov. Kay Ivey signed the proclamation declaring March Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month earlier this month.

“It was really fun going to it, and it was a real honor,” Jaxson said.

The Kelleys were able to attend the proclamation signing as a part of the Hemophilia and Bleeding Disorders Association in Wetumpka.

Jaxson was diagnosed with hemophilia when he was 7 years old.

“It is hard sometimes, because I have to get needles in my arms when I get hurt,” Jaxson said.

The needles infuse the factor 9 missing from Jaxson’s blood, allowing the blood to clot properly. Without the infusion, a cut or bruise would continue to bleed.

Kelley said they discovered Jaxson had the condition when he had a baby tooth pulled and his mouth would not stop bleeding.

“It was a shock,” Kelley said.

Jaxson spent a few days in Children’s Hospital in Birmingham recovering.

“It is still possible to lead a normal life,” Kelley said.

However, there are things that Jaxson has to avoid, such as playing football. Kelley said Jaxson had started playing football before they received the diagnosis, and he had to stop. Getting hit during a football game could cause bleeding in Jaxson’s head and joints. Since these areas cannot be seen like a bruise can, it would not be detected right away and could be very serious.

Kelley said he hopes the awareness month encourages people to learn more about Hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.