Jonathan James was born with severe hemophilia A, a genetic condition that affects blood clotting. Living with the disease is exhausting for most, and it means a lifetime of complex, painful treatment. Sometimes, the psychological toll feels more overwhelming than the physical symptoms.
After a particularly devastating period of treatment, during which Jonathan was unable to work, he and his family were lifted up by neighbors and friends who saw a family in crisis and acted to help. Jonathan was blessed with these connections, but many families with children who have hemophilia are not.
When he recovered, Jonathan devoted himself to creating Hope Charities, a Baton Rouge based nonprofit that helps young people living with hemophilia and their families by providing financial, emotional and practical support.
With a background as a financial advisor, Jonathan uses his professional and personal expertise to direct families to assistance and resources. He is recognized as an advocate for other families—testifying before the Louisiana legislature and other bodies to bring greater awareness to the cause.
Jonathan is now the full-time CEO of Hope Charities, and he continues to build a network of supporters to lift up families in need and give them hope in the face of a challenging chronic illness.