Information you can actually use.
Guides, papers, and tools for the BHASnet community. Open to everyone!
Information you can actually use.
Guides, research papers, and links our community has found genuinely useful — everything from plain-language explainers for someone newly diagnosed to more clinical resources for healthcare providers. Organized into folders so you're browsing a library, not scrolling an undifferentiated list.
Guides & Explainers
Plain-language material on living with, or caring for someone with, a blood health disorder.
Research & Data
More clinical material, useful for healthcare providers and anyone who wants the deeper detail.
External Links
Trusted resources from partner organizations and government health bodies.
Newly diagnosed or new to BHASnet?
Whether you're newly diagnosed, years into this, or showing up for someone you love, we've curated the resources to help.
Looking for someone to talk to?
A new diagnosis brings a lot of questions that don't need a hospital visit — just someone who gets it. That's what we're here for.
- WhatsApp Community: Join here
- Connect One-on-One: Find a member
- Message Us Directly: Contact us
If this is a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Your First Steps Guide
A plain-language introduction to sickle cell disease and what to expect.
Download PDFQuestions to Ask Your Doctor
A checklist of things to discuss at your first hematology appointment.
Download ChecklistPractical information for everyday life.
Managing a blood disorder isn't just about doctor's appointments. Here's what daily life can look like, and how to make it work.
Pain & Fatigue Management
- Non-medication pain relief techniques (heat, relaxation, distraction)
- Understanding & tracking your pain triggers (journal template)
- Energy conservation: How to pace yourself
- Mental health resources for chronic pain
Navigating the System
- How to apply for disability benefits in Canada
- A guide to your rights in the emergency room
- Tips for medication coverage & the pharmacare system
- Advocating for yourself at school or work
Emotional & Social Support
- Talking to friends & family about your condition
- How to find a therapist who understands chronic illness
- Managing the guilt of asking for help
- Support groups (virtual & in-person)
Nutrition & Lifestyle
- Nutrition basics: What to eat (and what to avoid)
- Gentle exercise routines for low-energy days
- Hydration strategies to prevent crises
- Travel tips for people with chronic conditions
Practical articles for everyday life.
From pain management to navigating the system, we're building a library of content to support your daily life.
Your voice has power. Use it.
Change doesn't happen by accident. Here's how you can help build a better system for everyone affected by blood disorders.
Policy & Research Briefs
Take Action
- Template letter to your MP (Advocate for better care)
- Share Your Story (Help us build a case for change)
- Register your Interest for our Advocacy Working Group
Found something worth sharing?
Anyone can submit a resource, you don't need to be a member first. Add a title, a short description, and either a link or a file, and an admin reviews it before it goes live. If you're not signed in yet, submitting one sets up a free account for you automatically, so you can find it again later.