For those who have been to an Ataxia UK conference before, be it annual or regional, what did you most enjoy/find useful about it and why?

[HarryB]

[wobblybee]

I attended last year for the first time, to say I was apprehensive is an understatement.

However, my fears were unfounded because there was a friendly, sociable atmosphere,

and what was most worrying to me at the time didn't happen, being the odd one out.

One thing that I particularly enjoyed, a most relaxing massage! (and the breakfasts)

Best wishes

Beryl

.

[ceri52]

Its meeting with people who understand fully not only about the person who has Ataxia, but also understands us the Mums/Dads/relatives/carers fears for their loved one. Also our hopes/dreams and aspirations for our relatives. My jade will grow up and be out there living life to the full. and if she needs a rest now and then, well we,ll be there to hold her up until she,s ready to have another go. But knowing Jade, she,ll be holding me up to keep pace with her.

[silkwood]

Meeting up with my local support group.Hearing the latest research and putting names to faces I 'meet' on LWA and Health Unlocked.

[february]

I live in the US. I was diagnosed with ataxia 10 years ago. My husband and I are going to attend the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF) conference for the first time, next weekend. It's being held this year in Detroit, Michigan, only an hour drive from where I live. I'm looking so forward to meeting others with ataxia, as I've never met anyone face to face. In fact, before I was diagnosed, I had never even heard of ataxia! I'm also excited to hear all the speakers, as my neurologist and speech therapist are speaking, as well as others from the University of Michigan. There are also speakers from out-of-state. It should be a great experience! ;o)

[nikkistowe Volunteer]

hi harryb sorry bit late in the reply, having been to many conferences over the years and spoken at a few. i agree with the others the social side is great and the evening disco/meal allows people to chat socialise and have a laugh informally. i feel thats the great strength of ataxia.uk as a support group because it shows the human side. i think the 'it works for me' the most helpful bits for me cos it shows what people have tried and have found it works for them and its usually stuff youve never heard of or stuff on the highstreet rather than ot books, as lets face it we all usually suffer the same symptoms/problems at one time or another so at some point the info is helpful and it may not be straight away.

when i was first diagnosed the greatest benefit for us was 'buddying' my family with an existing family with a girl my age, i know my mum learnt alot and for me it made it less daunting and i could get my head round it easier. hope that mmakes sense?

[HarryB Administrator in reply to nikkistowe]

Fabulous sense Nikki. I hope you attend and enjoy many more conferences to come!

HarryB!