Went to a hemophilia camp this weekend (sponsored by the CHES foundation).
Every year, folks travel from all over the US to attend.
Non-Profit organization devoted to the bleeding disorder community such as Hemophilia, Von Willebrand's and the even rarer bleeding conditions. We specialize in Inhibitors, Ultra-Rare bleeding disorders, and women's health advocacy.
ches.education
They do amazing work.
Anyway, the food was:
I look across the table and see a family of white folks pulling out these tiny green packets and sprinkling red powder on everything.
Had no idea what it was, and they offered to share some with me, but I was skeptical because of my racial/conscious bias.
(Had way too many office potlucks where plates were left upside down in the trash under my desk, trying to spare my coworkers' feelings.)
These were no ordinary white folks, though...these were white folks from Louisiana.
I had no idea what was about to happen.
They put me on to this stuff:
Took one bite and turned me Cajun instantly. Starting to speak like Chef Justin...
Went to play a game of horse after eating, and they dropped buckets on my head like the kid from Home Alone.
Some of the blackest white folks I've ever met in my life.
The stories they told about fatherhood, family, culture, and the trials and tribulations of facing the burden of hemophilia had me honored to be in their company.
Outstanding human beings. It was truly a privilege to meet them.
As introverted as I am, I don't use the term "friend" lightly, but in this case, I made friends for life!
Got an invite to come down and chill with them for Mardi Gras and everything.
Underneath all the narratives, people truly are just people.
This is me and my wife chilling with them, roasting marshmallows on the last night of camp.
