Through the Lens: Charlie Corbett’s Hemophilia Story of Connection and Community

Connection to Community

Charlie Corbett has lived with severe Hemophilia A for as long as he can remember. Now 66, he reflects on a life not defined by the condition—but shaped by resilience, perspective, and purpose.

For 44 years, Charlie has been married to his wife, Sally. Together, they’ve raised two daughters, Allison and Samantha, and built a growing family that now includes four grandchildren—Axel (11), Ike (9), Stella (4), and Sophie (3), with another granddaughter on the way this July. His oldest grandson, Axel, also lives with hemophilia, creating a deeply personal connection to the next generation.

For much of Charlie’s life, hemophilia felt isolating. The only others he knew with the condition were his uncles, who passed away at a young age. It wasn’t something openly discussed, and for many years, there was no real sense of community.

That changed eight years ago with Axel’s birth.

Through his daughter Allison, Charlie became connected to the bleeding disorders community—and soon after, to GOBDF. What began as an opportunity to photograph events quickly became something much more meaningful: a sense of belonging.

The Passion Behind the Lens

Charlie’s journey with photography began in high school in the late 1970s, sparked by a teacher who helped him see the world through a different lens. That early inspiration grew into a 40-year career as a professional portrait photographer, capturing milestones for thousands of families—from senior photos to weddings and life’s most meaningful celebrations.

His love of photography was also shaped by his uncle, who gave him his very first camera. Like Charlie, his uncle lived with hemophilia—a connection that made the gift even more significant.

“That camera wasn’t just a gift,” Charlie reflects. “It was an invitation to observe, to feel, and to preserve moments that matter.”

For Charlie, photography has always been about more than images. It’s about light, emotion, and storytelling. It’s about preserving history and holding onto the moments that connect generations.

A Memorable Moment

Every GOBDF event Charlie photographs holds meaning—but it’s the sense of community that stands out most.

Events like those at COSI are more than gatherings—they’re spaces where families connect, support one another, and build lasting relationships. For Charlie, who didn’t grow up with access to this kind of community, witnessing these moments is especially powerful.

Behind the camera, he sees children forming friendships with others who understand their experiences without explanation. He sees families finding comfort, connection, and joy.

“Hemophilia can be painful and unpredictable,” Charlie shares, “but in these moments, I see something stronger—kids laughing, playing, and just being kids.”

Watching his grandson—and others—experience this kind of childhood is something Charlie doesn’t take for granted. It’s a perspective that shapes every photo he takes.

The Bigger Picture

Today, Charlie continues to serve the community through his photography, capturing the energy, dedication, and impact of GOBDF programs and events.

Through his lens, he highlights not only the moments—but the mission. The families. The resources. The people working behind the scenes to make a difference.

“My goal is to share the stories of this community,” he says. “To help families see what’s possible and to make these important moments visible.”

For Charlie, every image is more than a photograph—it’s a reflection of resilience, connection, and hope.

And through his work, those stories continue to reach and inspire others.