Symposium

[leapyrtwins]

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

[Kaybo]

I, for one, am glad that you spent so much time socializing!!   

K   

[leapyrtwins]

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 

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

[ppearl214]

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.....

[Kaybo]

...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   

[G_Man]

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.

[Barb909]

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

[leapyrtwins]

Barb -

I already met you in Seattle this past August. 

It would be great to see you again in Cincinnati.

Jan

[CHD63]

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!!    )

Clarice

[tenai98]

I would love to attend but my son's wedding is the weekend before and I'll be partied out.  But I sure am hoping Phyl has those magical powers and hold it in Boston for the following one. 
JO

[Kaybo]

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   

[saralynn143]

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

[Jim Scott]

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

[iluuvpups]

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

[G_Man]

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