Hey! I’m Devang, 23, from India. I do freelance social media marketing, which lets me work from home on my own terms. Alongside that, I’m also preparing for government services—that’s the long-term goal.

As a kid, I was super active. But because of low Factor VIII levels, I had to deal with a lot of internal bleeds—some pretty scary, even life-threatening… I remember being in hospital for months multiple times when i was a kid. Still, thanks to my parents’ support and resilience, I managed to have a pretty healthy and active teenage life.

In the last 6–7 years though, things changed. I developed severe target joints, and honestly, it’s impacted my life in more ways than I can count. That constant feeling of weakness, of not being able to do what others around you can… yeah, I know that feeling too well.

But here’s the thing—I don’t see it as a struggle. It’s a fight. Every single day. With the condition, with its complications, and everything it tries to take from you.

What’s helped me? Staying informed. Learning about treatments and management. Being part of the community—online and offline. Talking to doctors regularly. Staying in touch with my local HTC and haemophilia chapter.

Because of all that—and the people around me—I’ve been able to keep my joints working pretty well. No major deformities so far. Yes, I’ve got haemophilic arthropathy too, like many others. But trust me, there’s always a way to move forward and that’s what I’m doing currently! Fighting my way out to more healthy joints. 

You’re not alone in this. Keep learning, keep fighting, and most importantly—keep showing up.

If you wish to connect, my email is: devangagarwal0211@gmail.com