EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Melissa has been involved with the Lone Star Bleeding Disorders Foundation since learning her son has hemophilia in 2003. She began volunteering, and has served as Hemophilia Walk Manager and Program Coordinator before becoming Executive Director. Melissa graduated from Texas A&M University, where she met her husband Brian. She and Brian have two children, son Kyle, and daughter Sarah. She is thrilled to be serving the bleeding disorders community of Texas.

DEVELOPMENT & OUTREACH MANAGER

Tara has been with the chapter for five years, leading fundraising efforts, organizing the Unite Walk, and fostering connections within the community. A native of the Greater Houston area, Tara is passionate about supporting individuals and families affected by bleeding disorders. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, entertaining, camping, and attending concerts.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR

Heidi has worked for the Lone Star Bleeding Disorders Foundation since 2008. She is privileged to serve such an amazing community! It is important to her to raise awareness for the bleeding disorders community as well as help provide families with education, support and advocacy. Heidi graduated from Texas A&M University. She is married to her high school sweetheart and they have four children. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and playing tennis.

OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Trish Amerson is a dually certified pediatric and family nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience. She earned her master’s degree as a pediatric nurse practitioner from UT Health San Antonio and later completed a post-master’s certificate as a family nurse practitioner at University of Texas at Arlington. Most of her career was spent caring for patients of all ages with bleeding disorders at the South Texas Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Treatment Center. She has been deeply involved in the bleeding disorders community through volunteer medical work, board service, conference speaking, Camp Ailihpomeh, and participation in statewide advisory efforts. Since retiring in 2023, Trish has been enjoying time traveling with her husband and spending time with her children and grandchildren.