Meet-and-Greet: Fun for All!

By Marilyn Hanft, 2014 Conference Reporter

As a first-time Conference attendee, I wasn't sure what to expect at the Meet-and-Greet. Once I – finally – found the right room (follow the noise of bunches of people all talking at once), I was amazed to see so many people who, like me, are wearing oxygen. To no longer feel “different” was a gift I didn’t expect. Amazingly, the many wheelchairs and motorized scooters seemed to blend into the crowd.

Wandering around, taking in the exhibits, I met so many nice, friendly people; I quickly felt right at home. There was Jimmy, a caregiver for his wife, checking in ahead of me. We went our separate ways, but I caught up with him again at the buffet. I met a younger woman who was only diagnosed a couple of years ago and several who are long-term survivors.

Each story was different, yet we all share a similar path.

A group gathered around each exhibit, talking to the staff and each other, sharing the experience. At one end of the room was a long table with items being raffled off. I was particularly surprised to see a basketball autographed by Larry Bird – my all-time favorite player! Someone else won it.

And so, my evening ended – tired and looking forward to three more days.

Throwback: PHA Roving Reporter Takes on 2012 Conference

Food. Fun. Friends. That sums up the exciting Patient and Family Meet-and-Greet from our 2012 Conference. PHA Roving Reporter, Nicole Northrop, took to our 2012 Conference Blog to describe the scene filled with tons to do and see!

Walking into the Crystal Ballroom at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld®, one would see many booths, delicious food, eager people, and fun activities. These aspects are what made the Patient and Family Meet-and-Greet at PHA’s 10th International Conference so enjoyable. The many people crowded into the ballroom were sporting a paper carnation. Each carnation was a different color to represent the many regions in which these people live. Every person, patient, caregiver and medical professional alike, seemed to be enjoying Conference. The ballroom was filled with happy chattering with people they had met.

Read Nicole's full blog post from our 2012 Conference