Anyone going to the forum in Newcastle on Friday?

[lizl]

I'm going to the forum on Friday in Newcastle, which will be my first one. Has anyone else been to one? What can I expect?

Lizl

[Swede]

Hello,

No, sorry haven't been and it is too far away.Sadly.

But, please, tell us after what you think...

[MFBMT2011]

You can expect a presentation on the various diseases and what is known about how they develop and also information on current drugs, treatments and trials. You will probably hear some stories from fellow patients and get to see a lot of people 'who do not look ill!' It is a good opportunity to talk to fellow sufferers so everyone gets an ET, PV or MF badge/label on which their name is written; there is great value in talking to fellow patients so don't be shy. At Cambridge last week we finished with a disease breakout session with people with the various diseases meeting in different parts of the room to share symptoms, solutions etc but most importantly know that they are not alone. There is no such thing as a stupid question other than one that is not asked when one does not know the answer! It is a great chance to learn more about your condition, be positive and don't waste it. Best wishes. Chris

[Hidden]

As said above, it is well worth attending the forums. The specialists put in a great effort to make it a success and our own Maz also works like trojan up to and including the day itself. I would urge everyone who gets a chance to attend one does so with enthusiasm. I attended one a year ago in Edinburgh and a disappointing number (about 11 people) turned up. Although the weather was bad that day I really don't know why there was the apparent lack of interest. I felt really bad for the volunteers and others who gave up their own time to put it on. It was very interesting and enjoyable. I think, maybe, "use it or lose it" is the relevant advice, but also, enjoy it.

[LouisePRV Volunteer]

Hi Liz, just to reiterate what the others have said.

I have been to three forums so far - two in London and one in Newcastle, and all were well worth attending. The consultants are informative and very approachable and it's great to meet other patients with this strange blood cancer - everyone is very positive and upbeat, questions are encouraged and you will come away better informed!

I will most definitely be attending the patient day in London in November - does anyone know the proposed date for this?

Thanks.

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

What lovely positive comments about the forums, thanks everyone, and without all of you turning up and helping out we couldn't run them. I am looking forward to seeing people on Friday in Newcastle, I will apologize in advance to anyone who came to the London forum in November and heard me give a talk, I have volunteered to give my talk again, so sorry if you have already heard it! I can tell you that the patient day will be held on Sat 16 Nov but that is all I know at the moment, we have a couple of speakers confirmed but that is about it, I should hopefully have more information in the next couple of weeks. So see you all on Friday. Maz

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

Just been informed of a change of room for the forum, it will now be held in The Grainger Suite, which is next to the Marlborough Suite. It will be signposted to direct you to the correct room. Maz

[lizl]

Wow, what excellent answers. Thank you to you all, I've yet to hear, apart from the very helpful Mazcd, of anyone else going from the Newcastle area but I suppose there will be a lot of people who don't participate in this forum, who will go.

Unfortunately I need to work in the morning and will miss the start but I'm certainly looking forward to going.

Thanks everyone. Liz

[Speedy1319]

I have only just heard about this meeting - and I am going!

[Speedy1319]

I have only just heard about this meeting - and I am going!

[Speedy1319]

I have only just heard about this meeting - and I am going!

[wendycu]

HI i am going, cant wait.

[jillydabrat]

Hi Liz, me and hubby are attending and this will be our first too so can't tell you what its like. Will look forward to meeting you though, Jill xx