June 1, 2008

The World Meets in Istanbul

I am in historic and amazing Istanbul, Turkey, site of the capital of the once Byzantine Empire and this week site of World Federation of Hemophilia Congress, which brings together people involved with hemophilia from all over the word. It is the largest hemophilia gathering, with over 4,000 in attendance! Mark Skinner, person with hemophilia and former US NHF president, is the WFH president.

Mark gave a wonderful talk tonight at the opening reception, followed by a Turkish symphony, with exotic and rich music, and traditional dancers. Afterward, all 4,000 attended the exhibition hall, where the manufacturers and also the hemophilia national organizations from many countries had booths. This is an all week long event, which gives attendees the chance to hear what other countries are doing in terms of hemophilia treatment, research and best practices. It also is a great chance to network. For me, in the international community for 12 years, it is like a family reunion. Already I have met with representatives from the Dominican Republic, where we just held camp, Pakistan, Russia and India.

Visit the WFH website at www.wfh.org to learn more about their efforts to help educate, organize and bring treatment to people with hemophilia worldwide.

 

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