TIP of the WEEK: Then and Now

As we come up on the PWSAUSA National Conference I cannot help but remember the first conference that I attended many years ago and the deep impact that it had on me personally and professionally. At that first conference, I met brand new parents and have had the honor of watching their children grow to near adulthood. I met people who made a choice to dedicate their lives to people living with PWS; the doctors, care givers, therapists of many different kinds. I saw their passion and creativity and it inspired and encouraged me. I was given phone numbers and email addresses and was told to use them freely when (not if) I encountered a situation that stumped me, and I took them up on that offer. It was the people that I met at that first conference that got me through that very difficult first year of the PWS experience.

When you attend conferences, fundraisers or parent meetings be that person who inspires the new comers and offers support. I am still here, still fighting the fight, still impassioned and still curious because a handful of people encouraged me to stick with it, who made me laugh when all I thought I could do was cry and walk away. I hope that I have returned the favor throughout the years and I ask that anytime you have the opportunity to please do the same. Your experience and enthusiasm are invaluable to new parents and providers.

I hope to see you all in Orlando!

Submitted by:
Patrice Carroll
Manager PWS Services

Related Posts: 
Latham Centers Sponsorship of the 2011 National PWSAUSA Conference Announced
PWS Conference News
Latham Volunteers and Donors Share Hope and Support at Recent Events