I had the distinct pleasure of attending the FPWR Conference Breaking Boundaries last week in San Antonio, Texas. First off,
let me say I should have paid more attention in my science classes
because the most amazing research is being done to address the many
complex and different challenges faced by people with
PWS. I was blown away by the passion, the commitment and the genius of
scientists, professionals and family members gathered together. This
was a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends and colleagues as well
as meet, in person, some Facebook friends from
the PWS community.
I learned a lot. The presentations ranged from the
very scientific to the very practical. I know more about Ghrelin now
than I ever knew, or knew I had to know. I heard about the role of small
pharmaceutical companies and the impact they
can have on our loved ones. I found out the diverse research grants
coming up and I am personally very excited to hear more about the Global
PWS Registry. Dwindling grants and flat funding from governmental
agencies makes this work all the more challenging.
As with all worthy causes, the funds will never meet the demand so being
smart and strategic with the grant money is critical to the over-all
success of the Foundation’s investments.
My head (and my heart) was jam-packed with all that was going on but as an admittedly “non-scientific” educator, the keynote
speech by Special & Para Olympian Meagan Michie was one of my
favorite moments. Hearing Meagan describe her life
and her journey to gold medals in swimming was inspiring. I am left
with her comment on growing up in Canada; “Can’t is a four letter word
in our house”. Thank you Meagan for your story and thanks to FPWR for
such a great conference!
Submitted by:
Chris Gallant
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