Holiday Happenings at Callaway Gardens

On November 16, Hemophilia of Georgia offered families in the inherited bleeding disorders community of Georgia an opportunity to celebrate the holiday season together and see the inspiring documentary, “Bombardier Blood.”  More than 400 people took advantage of the opportunity to network with other families and enjoy a wonderful day at Callaway Gardens.

Daily admission to Callaway Gardens was included with this event. Families were able to visit the Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center, Day Butterfly Center, Sibley Horticultural Center, Mr. Cason's Vegetable Garden, Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl, Overlook Garden, Discovery Bicycle Trail, Pioneer Log Cabin, Ida Cason Callaway Memorial Chapel, and the nature trails. Families checked in with the HoG staff at the Mountain Creek Inn, then had the rest of the day to play until it was time for the evening programs.

In the afternoon, a screening of the documentary “Bombardier Blood” was offered. Chris Bombardier, the star of the documentary, and his wife, Jess, introduced the film and later answered questions. Chris has severe hemophilia and is the first person with the disorder ever to climb the highest mountain on every continent. The documentary covers his life from childhood through scaling the final mountain.

The universally acclaimed documentary is great for all audiences but is especially meaningful for those affected by inherited bleeding disorders. Chris is the Executive Director of the non-profit, Save One Life, which provides financial assistance to people with bleeding disorders in developing countries. Save One Life is using the documentary not only to raise awareness of bleeding disorders but to move people to act to help others. After the movie, everyone enjoyed a buffet dinner in the ballrooms at the Mountain Creek Inn. 

At the end of the night, we toured “Fantasy in Lights” at Callaway Gardens. The ride in the open-air trolley was magical as we were dazzled by holiday scene after holiday scene crafted out of millions of lights. This was a fun way to get in the holiday spirit.