March is Blood Clot Awareness Month, which is a chance for everyone to learn more about and assess their risk of blood clots. One of the best things you can do to lower your risk for blood clots is staying active, so this month we’re focusing on the importance of exercise for vascular health.

Blood clots are actually quite common. They’re gel-like clumps of blood that can have many different effects on your body. Serious blood clots can cause events like heart attacks and strokes. This is why it’s important to discuss your risk of blood clots with your provider, and lower your risk when you can. A big part of lowering your risk is living an active lifestyle. Walking is a great way to get your blood flowing, but there are other activities that you can also consider - learn more about alternatives to walking here: https://www.vascularcures.org/beginning-exercise-for-vascular-health.

This month, take some time to assess your risk and share information with loved ones about how they can do the same. Learn more about your risk for blood clots here: https://www.vascularcures.org/news/2022/03/24/what-are-blood-clots

Blood clots can affect anyone, at any time. However, there are some things you can do to better understand your risk, including talking to your provider. Check out Linda’s story, which highlights her journey to the right diagnosis, and how walking is an important part of her life: https://www.vascularcures.org/news/linda-clot

Another patient story is a great example of how walking can make all the difference. Bert was diagnosed with CLTI, but wanted to explore treatments other than surgery. He began conducting experiments to see how to improve his walking ability and circulation, and started treating his PAD through these lifestyle changes. These experiments led to two publications in scientific journals, and an ongoing passion for engaging in patient-centered research and care. Read more about Bert and his incredible work here: https://thejewishnews.com/2022/10/14/non-physician-heals-himself/

Get $5000 to $7500 to join our Peripheral Artery Disease Community Liaison Team!

The PAD Community Liaison Team will create a group of patient ambassadors who lead grassroots and community efforts to advance awareness, treatment, and prevention of PAD. We’re looking for 5-6 people with vascular disease who want to receive a microgrant to make a difference in their community.

Through monthly cohort meetings, Vascular Cures will equip microgrant award winners with any Peripheral Artery Disease educational materials or guidance needed to execute community gatherings successfully. In addition, each community liaison will be given $5000-$7500 to support their local work! Learn more about the 2023 Community Liaison Microgrant at https://www.vascularcures.org/2023-microgrants

As always, Vascular Cures is eager to partner with anyone who has lived experience with vascular disease - patients, caregivers, and advocates are welcome! If you are interested in joining our Patients are Partners program to be the voice for patients like you, please fill out an interest form here: https://www.vascularcures.org/patients/patients-as-partners

For individuals with severe PAD or Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia, please consider joining our working group or PAD Empowerment initiative - details are here: https://www.vascularcures.org/patients/patient-engagement