Written by:
Courtney Battaglia BSN, RN
December 15, 2024
Meet Vasculearn Network (VLN)
We’re thrilled to share a new chapter in our journey! After almost 20 years as the North American Thrombosis Forum (NATF), we’ve grown, evolved, and transformed. Today, we’re proud to introduce ourselves as Vasculearn Network (VLN).
Our rebranding reflects a deep look into our identity and a forward-thinking vision for advancing research, education, and empowerment in thrombosis and related conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, stroke, heart attack, cancer, diabetes, and
obesity. This shift emphasizes our commitment to expanding networks that unite clinicians, researchers, patients, and caregivers. While our mission to improve lives through education remains steadfast, we are now reaching further and thinking
on an even larger scale.
This change is more than just a name; it’s a renewed commitment to serving our community with knowledge, resources, and support. While this is a “soft launch,” stay tuned for a new website in the coming months, offering an even more user-friendly experience for patients, caregivers, and clinicians alike. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Here’s to circulating knowledge and saving lives!
Mission: Vasculearn Network is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by blood clots and related diseases. Through our comprehensive resources and innovative programming, we strive to educate patients and clinicians about thrombosis and its complications.
Vision: To be the premier educational resource on blood clots and related diseases.
A Story of Survival and Gratitude: Meet Chad and Mary
What began as a typical day — biking, playing pickleball, and dinner with friends — became an unexpected battle for health and advocacy. On August 5, 2023, Mary woke in the middle of the night to find her husband, Chad, missing from bed. “I thought he was up working on his laptop like he sometimes did,” Mary recalls. When he wasn’t at his computer, Mary called out his name but didn’t receive a response.
“When he didn’t answer, I checked the bathroom, and there he was, unconscious.” She quickly called 911, and Chad was taken to a local hospital. The events that followed would change both their lives, leading them through a challenging journey of numerous hospital stays, months of waiting, and several life-threatening moments.
A Heart-Healthy Holiday Recipe
The holidays are a busy and joyous time — but not a time to ignore your health! Overeating food with unhealthy fats, sugar, and processed ingredients can lead to atherosclerosis, the buildup of cholesterol and other substances in the arteries. This process causes plaque to form, which can eventually rupture and trigger blood clots.
These clots can block blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Choosing heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help lower this risk. Making mindful food choices during the holidays can help support your heart and reduce the risk of harmful clots.
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