ANA Discussion Forum
AN Community => AN Community => Topic started by: G_Man on November 21, 2010, 04:53:43 pm
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Hi fellow ANA folks. Ok, for the benefit of those of us like myself, who have never attended the symposium, I'd like to know what it's like. I've been looking at the hotel and location. The website lists June 17 - 19, 2011. Can someone give me an idea of the schedule of events. I'm trying to figure out how I would go if I go. Do most people arrive on that first day in the morning or does it start early in the morning on the 17th? Do people leave on the 19th or does the symposium go through into the evening? I've been trying to figure out if there would be anything interesting to see and do in Cincinnati to make it worth staying a few extra days. I went to the hotel website and noticed that there are no rooms available for the Saturday night. Does the organization get room blocks for the weekend at some sort of symposium rate? I know it's probably too early to know detailed info about the event. I'm just trying to get an idea of what to expect in general terms. I'm looking at the costs and feasibility of going. For example I already know that flights from NYC are about $338 and up for a nonstop. Thanks for any your help in advance.
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Hi G Man!
I went to the last Symposium in Chicago but really, it is no secret, I was there to meet all the great people I have talked to on here!! ::) I did go to some sessions and there were a few things that still applied to me (almost 15 years out) but I am sure someone else can come along and tell you more...someone who is more interested than just the "SOCIAL" end of it!! ;)
K ;D
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I went to the Chicago Symposium (arrived the night before and stayed until the last session was over) also and I'm with Kay, one of the biggest benefits was the interaction with the other ANers who totally understand. But beyond that, the sessions were very well done and extremely beneficial. At no time did I feel pressure to "attend the next session," in fact I went back to my room frequently to take quick naps. The presenters were well qualified and totally professional with all their presentations ..... even the panel discussion of case studies, in which several doctors who were surgeons and/or radiation docs told what they would probably recommend with each patient.
As for Cincinnati area activities, there are many fun things to do in Cincinnati ...... the Reds baseball field is there, a wonderful Art Museum, King's Island amusement park is near by, etc.
I hope you come. In my opinion, it is well worth the time and money just for the symposium itself.
Clarice
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I have now went to 5 symposiums, partly due to being NF2. I have enjoyed the info and getting to know so many other ANers. There are large general sessions and small sessions on many topics that you choose which one you go to ahead of time. That info will be listed on this AN site eventually under symposium link. It is also in the AN newsletter if you have joined and receive that. Food is included as part of the weekend. It goes from Fri noon to Sun noon. We have stayed most of the time and did sightseeing in the town. Never knew I would get to see some big cities the AN way. I live in the midwest and hope to this time also if we drive as want to go to some other parts of Ohio that have been to before and want to go again. Several of us here did come on Thurs last year and met for supper. I will not go to them forever but do plan to this next year.
Cheryl R
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Just wanted to add that I went to the last symposium as my first, not knowing at the time that surgery was in my future. I learned a LOT and felt much better prepared for what would be my outcome. I had read a lot and had been through gamma knife prior, but nothing compares with meeting fellow ANer's. I'm on the "other side" now but plan to go again this coming year. I attended every session I could and felt it was well worth it!
Denise D.
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Thanks for responding everyone. I do see the value in meeting everyone and the sessions as well. It's been over a year since my diagnosis. I've been trying to take smaller bites of info past the initial exposure and learning experience. I may be lucky enough to be watch and wait for a long time but nobody can predict that. I'm thinking the details will be up on the website in the next few months. From being in the N.F.B. and attending the national convention many times I figured there must be some similarity in the structure but not the content of course. It actually sounds like it's more fun than the NFB conventions.
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G_Man
All those that posted here attended last year just to meet me at the symposium! ;)
I'm with everyone here... the "social" aspect to meet other AN'ers was terrific (Capt Deb and I shared a room..... became party central.....we lucked out no bail money was required but I believe Kaybo, Jan and Lori needed bail money ;) ).
For me, we had a lot of "off the cuff" access to AN treating physicians... over lunch, over drinks, mingling, in the hallways, etc..... they were approachable, open to answering our questions and the workshops they did were certainly insightful.
Hoping to make it to Cinci. Pushing to have 2013 here in Boston... trust me... I'm working it! :)
Phyl
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If not Boston, then I think Houston would be good!! ::) I have no plans to attend this year, but maybe 2013...we'll see...
K ;D
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I'd like to go. I'm planning to go. Trouble is, there's lots of places I'd like to go to/am planning to go to next year. So we'll see what happens. Recent AN related ongoing difficulties make it less likely I will be participating in some of the endurance athletic events I was thinking about. So the symposium is looking more likely. You don't know how much I would LOVE to meet you all!
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You guys sound more like it's a big party than anything else. I'm not complaining. When you find out you have this thing you really start thinking to yourself, "Now I gotta' bust a move in my life cause who knows what the future will bring." Also sounds like you're intrested in having 2013 in any place that ends in "ston". Unfortunately Kingston wasn't mentioned, but that's just a little upstate town anyway. Well I'm going to try and make 2011 as I still have a long long way to go to be where I may one day need to be. EWW what a statement that was!
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Actually I attended for the social aspect, and because it was here in my own backyard (Chicago), and also because I was a sponsor.
But that said, the few sessions I attended were excellent and I wish I had attended many more. As someone who was already post treatment and who had conquered my biggest "issue" - SSD (with a BAHA) - there were some sessions that weren't all that relevant to me.
However, the access to doctors and information was tremendous and I did myself a disservice by not attending more sessions. If nothing else I would have learned a lot more about ANs, treatment options, and hearing options which can only help me in my role as a Cochlear volunteer and as an advocator for those with ANs.
I am planning to attend in 2011. I'm a sponsor once again and I want to meet Kathy M ;D - and naturally anyone else from the Forum who attends. This time I'll balance my meeting and greeting (okay, socializing) with sessions and try to do it all.
I think it's very worthwhile to attend and the price is right; lots of information, meals, etc., for your money.
And while I didn't require bail money in Chicago - I think that was Lori, right Kaybo ?? - I just may in Ohio. You never know. Are you listening Phyl? Bring lots of cash ;D
Jan
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Ahoy Gman!
I've attended the past two symosiums--the first one I was desperate to find some info on how to manage the awful headaches I was having but the 2nd one was more socializing and sight-seeing (awesome exhibit at the Field Museum called "Real Pirates" but I did attend 2 headache workshops and several round table discussions with other headachers and docs. So much great info on what has been a life-altering condition for me.
These symposiums are really great for W and Ws and pre-treaties. One of the board members has been W and W for 13 years--you should meet him. The ANA has already blocked out rooms and you can make your res through them. All of the activites will be posted on the ANA website if they aren't already--click on the ANA logo in the upper right of this page to find out.
Hope to see you there!
Capt Deb
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I see the Symposium information posted. It looks really good. Seems like a lot goes on in that little weekend. What do they do as far as food is concerned? It looks like they provide food as part of the registration. What I'm asking is what type of food do they serve at the lunch and dinner?
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I am planning to do to the Cincy Symposium since it is hosted by the group that my doctor belongs to and is about 10 minutes from my house!! I will be happy to be the tour guide via this forum for anyone that needs info such as a great place to visit or eat while in the Greater Cincinnati area. (there are a few eateries that you NEED to try while in the area) I will try and create a posting with info when it gets closer to the summer or you can just shoot me a message. John
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John, that was my origional question. If I'm going to Cincinnatti and I could add on a day or two to the weekend, what would I want to see? Keeping in mind that I don't drive.
Thanks in advance for your help.
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The symposium food has always been quite good. it is always at a big hotel who is used to catering large groups. Breakfast is the usual fare. A lunch Sat has varied and don't remember much about it but is buffet type where you pick what you get. Sat night is a banquet with a speaker and standard salad,main dish, dessert. Sun has usually been a brunch and mid am and breakfast with added type food. Last year on Fri eve we had mini group sessions with various of the speakers letting us ask the. A sandwich meal was provided. Ones spouse can only eat with you if paid for the main fee for them. Some times the banquet has let you pay just for it for the spouse but has been rather high priced.
Cheryl R
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Also, a group of us got together (from the Forum) the night before it officially started and all went & ate together - VERY fun! Of course, this is not included in the weekend price, but a great way to meet all the people (some) you "talk" to all the time. A girl from Chicago helped us pick a place...
K ;D
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Thanks everyone. It all sounds great!!!
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Now you have me all interested! I want in. June seems so far away I can't imagine that the hotels are already booked. I am fortunate to have family outside of Dayton about an hour away from Cincy so it might be feasible for me? Although I'll have to see, will renting a car be cheaper than staying in a hotel? Decisions decisions! I'm also in it for the social aspect, but it would be great to hear some knowledgeable AN Dr's speak.
Liz
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There will be a block of rooms saved for the symposium at what their special rate will be. Last time I did not reserve a room till Feb and did ok. So if one did not ask for a symposium room they might be about full. We've already got a number of the rooms being saved for this "convention". Cheryl R
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Good to know thanks Cheryl :D
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I can't wait for June!!! Jan, I am so looking forward to meeting you and all of my other AN friends!!!! This will be my first symposium, so I will need details of where to be when. I live only 2 hours away, and we are planning to come for the weekend. Please let me know when you are getting in town and I'll be there!!!!!!
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If a picture is worth a thousand words, this link should be worth a cool million. It is pictures from the 2009 Symposium:
http://anausa.org/forum/index.php?topic=10294.0
Tells the whole story (except the parts that stay in Chicago...)
Steve
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Fond memories, Steve! Hopefully looking forward to Cinci and seeing many of you there!
Phyl
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In a word... "GO!" Why? The people...see my signature block at the bottom of this post. It was right about the middle of the Chicago symposium that the correlation between having an AN and intelligence/interesting-ness occurred to me.
Being a bit less of a social butterfly and more of an information geek, I attended all the sessions I could... absolutely wonderful information. The speakers were all very approachable and very generous with sharing their expertise. At the round table dinner, I felt very sorry for our speaker, she was so busy talking and sharing that she didn't get around to doing more than picking at her dinner.
Though not overly social, I also very much enjoyed meeting with folks from here and with folks I had never met in any format.
If you want to go ahead and reserve a room. Use the link off the symposium overview page that just lists the generic hotel link. The one that is suppose to take you directly to the group rate/reservation has some difficulty. On the reservation page there will be a group code box to fill in after you fill in all your date/name stuff. Use the code ANU (not ANA due to that code being assigned to a different group) in that box and you will be put in the ANA block of rooms with the discount.
Go!
..thanks for being.. migoi
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I'm hopeful I'll be in attendance.
Finances are a little tight right now, but I'm going to do my damndest to get there - even if I have to hitchhike and sleep in the park ;)
Never say never,
Jan
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Never say never
In your case, I'm CERTAINLY NOT saying that.... :)
xxoo
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Ok, so I think this might sound strange to some people but I'm actually getting excited about the symposium. From what I see so far I get the feeling that it's very well organized. It looks like I'll learn so much in a weekend. I'm not exactly reading everything I can get my hands on regarding having this tumor in my head. Frankly, I'm finding the coping a little difficult as far as the informational aspect goes. I think the symposium could be a much more paletable way of getting to where I need to be. Don't get me wrong. I've got the basics. I've read most of the pamphlets and I read the newsletter. I just have a threshhold. I'm trying to get better at it but it's a slow process. So yeah, I'm excited!
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I don't think that is strange at all, G-man! I was very excited to go to the symposium in Chicago. I thought the sessions were great (okay, the one Kaybo and I went to about eye stuff was downright freaky) and the social aspects were not to be missed. And, don't listen to Migoi - he's a TOTAL social butterfly in his own quiet way!
Not sure yet if Willie and I will be able to get to Cinci this year - lots going on with his aging parents at the moment, so we just have to play it by ear. Hoping we can go, though, as I know it will be a great time!
Debbi
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I hope to be able to come. I have a friend in Cincinnati who I would like to visit, but we just saw her this past summer. I will have to wait and see what the summer brings. With two busy teenagers who don't drive yet and my eldest planning to be home on a break from her service trip to Vietnam, it's anyone's guess at this point.
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I agree with Debbi, G Man.
It's not strange at all. The symposium is definitely something to look forward to.
Attending is very worthwhile, both from a resource/information aspect, as well as a social aspect.
I spent a little too much time on the social aspect in 2009, but it's hard to fit everything in. If I had my way, the symposium would last at least a week with 3 or 4 days dedicated solely to socializing. The personal contacts you can make are incredibly helpful. Just to interact with others who can relate to the AN Journey is very reassuring.
The Forum is one thing, but the symposium takes it to a whole new level.
Jan
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I, for one, am glad that you spent so much time socializing!! ::) ::)
K ;D
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Yeah, me too - but there were so many sessions I completely missed. Which is sad because I heard they were quite good.
I did hear Dr. Penzak talk about hearing "devices" and another audience member and I got to give our two cents worth on the BAHA. I'm sure you know what I said ;D
I also got to hear both my neurotologist and my neurosurgeon speak - at different sessions.
I'd love to see the ANA set time aside during the weekend for a Forum get together/social event. I know there is so much going on that it would be hard to do this but I think it would be great.
Maybe if Phyl can convince the powers that be to make symposium 2013 in Boston she could also talk them into making a Forum gathering.
Are you listening, Dr. Phyl ???
Jan
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Maybe if Phyl can convince the powers that be to make symposium 2013 in Boston she could also talk them into making a Forum gathering.
Are you listening, Dr. Phyl ???
Listening more than you know :) Noted.....
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...and SEPERATE from the Saturday night gig - it is wonderful but not a true social setting for interacting - a QUIET ONE where no speakers are talking!! I'm still petitioning for Houston!!
K ;D
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It all sounds great and I'm figuring out how I'm gonna' go. I'm wondering if there's a sweet spot in flight prices form NYC to CVG. It seems like the agenda is packed. I'll probably travel on Thurs. just to make it less stressful.
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Hi all,
I am really looking forward to this event! I am from the Cincinnati area, just about 10 minutes south, but now live in Seattle. I may get a room at the hotel just to have some fun with this group, but my sister lives nearby so might be financially silly....but I've done silly things before! Anyway, it should be fun and informational. If/when I have to have surgery, these guys in Cincinnati will be my choice. They are good and I have family there.... makes sense.
I don't post much because I have not much to add, but I visit very often. I am so much looking forward to meeting all of you. Feel like I "know" you! And, I will be forever grateful for the information, support and camaraderie.
Barb
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Barb -
I already met you in Seattle this past August.
It would be great to see you again in Cincinnati.
Jan
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Well, I finally got around to making my reservations at the hotel in Cincinnati for the Symposium and will be sending the First Call registration in soon. For those of you considering going, it is well worth the money not only for the information but the social/networking time of getting to know others who understand so well how you are feeling, etc.
The deadline for the First Call is February 1st for registrations at the lowest price.
...... and Kay, please reconsider and come (I'll skip naps to talk with you!! :o :-* :-*)
Clarice
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I would love to attend but my son's wedding is the weekend before and I'll be partied out. ;D But I sure am hoping Phyl has those magical powers and hold it in Boston for the following one.
JO
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Clarice~
It is not that I don't WANT to come, it is more the money aspect. Last time, we used free tickets and we are all out of those and really won't be getting anymore!! The reason why we got enough last time was from all our trips to Baltimore/Houston for my T3 and complications (& I do NOT want that again!!) and then just simply travelling to Houston to see Grandma. Since we live here now - that travel is nonexistent!! I certainly don't want pity, just stating the facts...since I don't work, our budget is very limited for things like this. That is a choice that we have made - due to my energy constraints and our desire for me to be at home for our girlies!! ;)
K ;D
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I understand perfectly, Kay, we have the same issue here. I stay home not only for the kids but also to help two recently widowed elderly mothers, one of whom does not drive and has lots of doctor appointments. Maybe we can Skype in to the festivities.
Sara
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Kay ~
Many of us have to deal with financial considerations that preclude incurring the expenses of attending the bi-annual ANA symposium. I'm one of them. When you add up the fee to attend (I wouldn't consider accepting a free pass), air fare, hotel and incidental costs it is simply too much expense for us to take on at this time. Because I have no intention of attending without my wife, the lovely and gracious Tina, that effectively doubles the cost. Should the next ANA symposium be held somewhere within driving distance, say, Boston (2 hours away by car) or Manhattan (a 90-minute train ride from my Connecticut home), we would seriously consider attending. However, for this year, we cannot. However, I look forward to seeing the photos of folks I consider friends and reading all about the symposium here on the discussion forums. Besides, the ANA Northeast Discussion Forum Brunch awaits, in April!
Jim
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Hi. Is anyone from Southeastern Michigan going to the Symposium? I'd love to share a ride instead of having to drive alone. Let me know. Thanks! --Carol Ann
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Ok, so I'm registered, got the room, booked the flight. All is good. When I was registering I did put in for an "informational appointment" with one of the doctors. Now the question is, What are those like? DO I bring my test results?
Thanks
Glen
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I will also be attending the symposium in June, and I am looking forward to meeting all of you forumites who have helped get me through this past year. Never would have made it without all of your support, advice and laughter! See ya in Cincinnati ;D
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This is my first symposium and I have a question for those who have done this before - my daughter and/or my husband will come with me. Do I need to pay full registration for them too? Meals only? I got the ANA newsletter in mail and from the registration form, I'm not too sure!
Kathy
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If your family is going to go to the meals then you have to pay full registration fee for each person. I paid extra once for my husband to go just to the banquet and it was a very high fee so last year he did not go. They also need to have paid the registration fee if going to the sessions. The one fee is for both sessions and meals. I have had my husband go to just one NF2 session and did not pay but was just the one mini session. Usually my husband comes and just does sightseeing on his own. Our MI daughter came when it was at Disney World so they did their own thing over the weekend. Not sure what is going on this year yet here and if he is coming. So not sure if flying or driving. Cheryl R
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Hi Kathy .....
The way I read the registration materials (see: http://anausa.org/index.php?option=com_anasymposium&view=form&Itemid=137 ) if you pay by Feb. 1st, your guest/spouse will pay $145 if you are a member of the ANA or $185 if you are a non-member. Since ANA membership is $40, it makes sense to join. It seems to me that there is no early benefit for day rates, except by May 1 and then it would be the same for you and/or your guest. $145 is a bargain rate when you think about all of the workshops and meals it covers. I have frequently gone with my husband to his conventions and the cost was way more and no meals included.
I have made our hotel reservations and sent in the registration for my husband and myself. I am so glad you (and others on the forum) are coming. The food at the Chicago Symposium was outstanding and well worth the money. I will have to presume it will be equally so in Cincinnati. I know the workshops and opportunity for networking will be worth it ..... not only with other AN patients, but with the outstanding medical professionals who will be there. The neat thing is that it is just small enough that there are plenty of opportunities to talk with others.
Looking forward to June!
Clarice
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Clarice, thanks for mentioning the non member fee since I over looked that since I am a member. The food has always been good at the last 4 symposiums. They are always held at a place where conventions and conferences are held and know how to handle large group food. Cheryl R
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Hello! I cannot wait to go to the symposium! It will be one week short of my 2 year anniversary of my craniotomy that was done by our hosts Dr. Tew and Dr. Pensak! Woo hoo! Because I live in Michigan, I have not been back since the surgery so I am so glad to see them and show them my progress. Loved the staff at Mayfield Clinic while I was there. If they run the symposium as well as their clinic, the symposium will be very valuable indeed. ;D
Anyone else going from West Michigan that would like to carpool there?? Let me know! You may PM me (My name is Kim!) Happy VAlentine's Day!
(edited by omitting personal email address. Folks can "PM" -- forum email -- you here. Thanks. Phyl)
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I registered this week too. This will be kinda pricey, coming from South Carolina and all, but I'm thinking well worth it. It's so important to stay really, really up-to-date on this condition. Unfortunately, many time we wind up knowing more about this condition than some of our doctors who have rarely encountered patients with ANs in their practice.
Very, very excited to see you all!
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Hey are you from Charleston Sunfish? I'm interested to know what it's like living there. Can someone who doesn't drive live there and have a good quality of life?
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Well, there is a VERY good chance I'm going to Cinci for this one as a volunteer for the ANA (with intention of volunteering during the symposium for multiple activities). Spoke to Capt Deb last night. She is questionable due to recent ailments but.... am nudging her to register and donations for bail money for the 2 of us may be submitted to either one of us ;D
Based on the agenda for this one, there are some workshops that were also presented in Chicago but some new that I am looking forward. For the ANA volunteers, its a great way to learn more so we can better support all that venture to the forums/take advantage of the WTT list/attend support group meetings so we can be the best volunteer we can be. What I also loved about the last one was the luncheon (where we marched in with Piratitude gear) and the dr's actually hunted down our table to eat/talk with us. It was great to be able to sit with them and let us "pick their brain", challenge in conversation and see the true "human" side of them (esp. dropping food on their neckties).
Phyl
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It is looking like the hubs and I may be able to make it ti Cincinnati for the Symposium. Yay! So, I've lost track...who's going?
Debbi
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Debbi~
Wouldn'tyou rather come to Houston and see Dave and me??
K ::)
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Kay, I'd rather do BOTH! Are you sure you and Dave can't make it? I'm going to miss you!!
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Debbi .....
Keep pushing Kay!! It's time for a party!!!
Clarice
P.S. Truman and I are coming.
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Seriously? All you guys are going to make it to Cinci?
Are the JKL trio the only ones who can't make it :'(
Jan
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Are the JKL trio the only ones who can't make it :'(
So, I don't have to bring bail $ for the "JKL"? Dang! :'( :'(
Will be great to see Clarice and Debbi again! :) Cheryl, are you definately going? And look at the new faces I will get to meet after corresponding for such a long time.... such as sunfish and kathym, etc......Still awaiting final word that I'm set to go. Will advise......
Phyl
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Well, we are still undecided, but hopeful. Jan, you're NOT going? Bummer. That means Phyl will have to try to get into extra mischief to make up for the JKL team...
Hoping we can go. We are in the process of moving my in-laws out of the house they've been in for 35 years, so everything is a bit up in the air at the moment.
Debbi
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I enjoyed the Chicago symposium (even as an AN outsider) and would like to go to Cincinnati as I have another friend there as well, but June is just not workable. Middle daughter has summer school and summer basketball league, and eldest daughter will be coming home from Vietnam for the summer sometime in late June.
I will be thinking good thoughts for those of you who are able to attend, and eagerly reading your reports. Have a swell time!
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Yes Phyl, I am going! It won't be a forever thing but this year again. Money is in and room reserved. I can't get husband to come to symposium so he gets to sightsee. Hopefully he won't change his mind and I have to fly there. Planning to do some other sightseeing in Ohio hopefully too. The darn gas prices going up isn't helping any too! I always look forward to who all I get to meet. I'm not a big mischief maker but just an old fogey! LOL! Cheryl R
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Yes Phyl, I am going! It won't be a forever thing but this year again. Money is in and room reserved. I can't get husband to come to symposium so he gets to sightsee. Hopefully he won't change his mind and I have to fly there. Planning to do some other sightseeing in Ohio hopefully too. The darn gas prices going up isn't helping any too! I always look forward to who all I get to meet. I'm not a big mischief maker but just an old fogey! LOL! Cheryl R
Cheryl, are you still planning on it and is that "dood" of a spouse coming along too? I'm officially "In" for attending. Just registered.
BTW, folks... "Early Bird Special" ends tomorrow (April 1), in case you are looking to save money.
Is there an official list of forum attendees anywhere yet? This thread has become a mish-mash so not sure if official list is somewhere yet... and based on "forumites" attendance, do we try to plan an "organized" get together this time since last time (Chicago), it was a hint off-beaten path?
Phyl
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Ok, I'm going to start the list.....
*ahem*
OFFICIAL ANA DISCUSSION FORUMITES TO ATTEND 2011 SYMPOSIUM:
Phyl
Cheryl R
CHD63/Clarice and Truman
sunfish
Eturnit
Kathy M
ombrerose4
G_Man/Glen
Barb909
I have some hugglez on reserve on many that I can't wait to meet/see!
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Phyl, yes I am coming. Think husband is but not 100% sure. Then as said, he doesn't go to the symposium but around for non symposium goings on. Time will be here before we know it. I am pretty sure Mei Mei is coming also. Will think about who else has said they were. Cheryl R
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what do you mean "hint off beaten path"??
I thought Debbi and Willie were going?? Guess y'all will have to try to survive without me...
*sigh...* ::)
K ;D
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Kay .....
You just have to keep working on this ......... 'cause I might not survive without you!
Clarice
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Oh Clarice!
You don't know how much your words mean to me...in a world where I live everyday feeling like a total loser and that no one wants me around, those words were balm to my soul! I always thought that I had some stellar qualities but have been wondering if they must have been left behind in the move!! ???
K ;D
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Kaybo, You are far from a loser! I get tired from just reading of all your activities with your wonderful girlies, volunteering,church and keeping a family going! I am very glad I did get to meet you at the symposium and you are an inspiration to many! What you went thru at a young age and then have went on to have a good life and family,is meaningful to many of us!
Cheryl R
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Phyl,
If you're keeping a list, you can add my husband (Ed) and me to it. We have our reservation in and out room at the hotel. I'm looking forward to meeting all my new AN friends that I have been chatting with.
Sandy
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I'll really sad that I can't make it to Cinci this summer. I'm even more sad that I can't march down to Houston right this minute and knock some sense into whoever is snubbing our Kay.
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Kay/Sarah, it TRULY is NOT going to be the same without you both!!!!!!!!!! :'( :'( :'(
Sandy, adding you and Ed to the list! Really looking forward to meeting you! :)
OFFICIAL ANA DISCUSSION FORUMITES TO ATTEND 2011 SYMPOSIUM:
Phyl
Cheryl R
CHD63/Clarice and Truman
sunfish
Eturnit
Kathy M
ombrerose4
G_Man/Glen
Barb909
kraynok2/Sandy and Ed
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I went all the way back & couldn't find confirmation on this thread but I think Tim & Cyrilee are coming too...remember the thread about registering & how it directed you to a porno site. I think Tim found that when he was trying to register...
K ;D
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Loser? Kaybo? Okay, I'm TOTALLY confused here.
I think Debbi and Willie are tentative. Wish I were on the list of those going, but as of today it's not in my plans.
My wallet won't allow it this year :'(
Jan
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Kay .....
..... do not even know where to begin with this ..... but ever since I met you in Chicago two years ago, you have been my inspiration to keep going. There are many on this Forum who feel exactly as I do, even without knowing you personally.
Sounds like you need a BIG HUG, for sure!!!!! *BIG HUG*
Clarice
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Sorry, guys - don't want this thread to be about me...I was just overcome by Clarice's kind words. This has been a VERY difficult move for me...I think I handled brain surgery and a paralyzed face a LOT better than this and I find myself doubting myself all the time. I'll be OK...
K ;D
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Sorry, guys - don't want this thread to be about me...I was just overcome by Clarice's kind words. This has been a VERY difficult move for me...I think I handled brain surgery and a paralyzed face a LOT better than this and I find myself doubting myself all the time. I'll be OK...;D
Kay ~
If anyone on these forums deserved a thread about them, it would be you! Your affirmative attitude and obvious strength of character is admired by many - and I count myself among them. I believe your life is a testament to your spiritual faith and your determination to make the most of what God has given you, which is an abundance of riches beyond what money could ever buy. Your family are clearly your real joy and over the time I've been reading and posting on these forums, I feel I've come to know you, the girls, your husband and many aspects about your day-to-day life. Obviously, the move has posed challenges and they have taken a temporary toll on your usual buoyant attitude, but with your inner strength and the prayers that are being said for you, it's just a brief moment before your infectious optimism returns to brighten the lives of those around you and those who know you only through these forums, but still feel as if we have a friendly neighbor, nearby, in you, Kay. Thanks for being here to help brighten everyone's day. I hope any lingering clouds over your day are soon lifted. God bless you.
Jim
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Kaybo -
having just moved myself - for the first time in over 22 years - I can say that I totally agree with you. I recovered from brain surgery much easier. There's just something about being "displaced" that's very unsettling. The fact that I'm now living with raccoons that have chewed their way through the roof of the house we are renting probably also has something to do with that unsettled feeling ;D
Seriously though, I'm with you on this one.
Clarice summed you up very nicely. You're a huge inspiration :-* And you're so nice - much nicer than I'll ever be ::)
Hang in there sis,
Jan
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Hope you will joing us for our 20th national symsosium - June 17-19 in Cincinnati. You can register online on our website.
Please drop me an email if you are coming to the symposium. We want to plan special social time for Forum AN'ers. Look forward to seeing you in a few weeks in Cincinnati.
Judy
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Hope you will joing us for our 20th national symsosium - June 17-19 in Cincinnati. You can register online on our website.
Please drop me an email if you are coming to the symposium. We want to plan special social time for Forum AN'ers. Look forward to seeing you in a few weeks in Cincinnati.
Judy
Judy
Thank you SO much for thinking of the forumites... you KNOW I'll be there! >:D
Phyl
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My husband and I will be attending the symposium. I am really looking forward to meeting fellow forumites ;D Can't wait!
Lauren
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My husband and I will be attending the symposium, also. I am looking forward to meeting my fellow friends on this forum. Sandy
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Hey, I have to say I'm glad I started this thread. I wasn't sure at first if it would be silly & ignored.
Anyway, I'm about to finish my questions for the 15 minutes w/the Dr. I finally realized that 15 minutes isn't a world of time. I'm mostly opting for a 2nd opinion, which I really hadn't gotten as yet. Plus I'm interested in complications surgery could bring that would effect my vision.
Funny thing happened last week. I took a DB2 class. Nope that wasn't funny, it was downright unfunny. BUT they guy who taught the class is from Ohio. I asked him about Cincinnati. He's a bit of a partier from what I gather. Anyway, he said that Cincinnati has nothing going on. All the good bars and restaurants are in Covington. I'm sure many of you already know that. So I made a connection between SQL and AN. Now that's funny in an ODD way :)
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Better late than never....
I do believe that my husband and I will be heading to Cincinnati! We have had grandma volunteer to watch our son :). We plan to get registered tomorrow. Really looking forward to meeting all of you! I am really just looking forward to conversation with folks that understand the AN journey!
Kris
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I've read this forum over the past two years as I was diagnosed and then treated - cyberknife at Stanford 20. All of the personal information shared was incredibly helpful with both understanding and during recovery. My husband are attending the forum and we're looking forward to meeting all you generous forumites to thank you in person for the time and effort you dedicate to helping others.
Helen
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I'm going to be there too, but arrive on Friday around 1 pm. Will have to check into my room and then look for everyone. So excited about the Symposium and meeting my extended family. You have been a tremendous support since I first found out I had an AN.
Mei Mei
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My husband, Steve, and I will be there on Friday!
Kathy
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Sounds like fun...I'll join you for a tour if possible.
Mei Mei