|
Dozens of LadyBugsTM gathered at the beautiful Hotel Monaco in downtown Seattle, Washington, on Saturday, April 14th. Of course we are talking about our recent event, Saturday in Seattle, where a large group of Women with Bleeding Disorders (WWBDs) gathered together for a day of education, empowerment; and fun! Our day started with a delicious breakfast, with women sharing scones and bleeding experiences. In attendance were LadyBugsTM from the Seattle area, as well as from California, Montana, and New York! One of the highlights of the day was our keynote speaker, Helen Thayer, the first woman and oldest person ever to travel on foot (with only her 94 lb. Eskimo dog, Charlie, at her side) to the North Pole. Helen stated that "Goals without a plan are only a dream," and emphasized that persistence is key in achieving one's goals. The LadyBugsTM were inspired by her limitless energy and determination in the face of numerous barriers to achieving her goals, including several polar bear confrontations and horrendous arctic storms. Ms. Thayer later remarked, after hearing many WWBD stories, that she too was being inspired that day by all of our stories of survival.
Saturday in Seattle continued with an animated and personal presentation by Danielle Stueber, MD. As a physician and a WWBD, Dr. Stueber was able to offer unique and helpful advice on navigating the medical system and getting the most out of your doctor's visit (Dr. Stueber's insights can be found on the Health Talk link on our website).
LadyBugsTM enjoyed a gourmet lunch and had an opportunity to network with their new friends. "One of our biggest assets is each other," said Shari Bender, LadyBugsTM Advisory Board member and mother of a 10-year-old girl with Hemophilia. "This kind of event," she continued, "it lets us share ideas and experiences, providing an invaluable education and giving us the strength to tackle the maze of the healthcare system and the myriad of issues facing a woman with a bleeding disorder.
After lunch, attendees asked thought-provoking questions of our panel of experts, including representatives from the Bleeding Disorder Foundation of Washington and the Puget Sound Blood Center. Questions regarding menopause, hormones and bleeding, and the use of nutraceuticals along with traditional treatments sparked animated discussion.
Our day continued with a presentation from Elaine Lai, WWBD. She was able to share many firsthand tips and helpful hints on living with a bleeding disorder. LadyBugs'TM Executive Director Barb Forss formally announced the creation of the "Cindy Neveu Memorial Foundation" (for more information check out the "News" link on our website). LadyBugsTM then participated in a fun basket giveaway and ended the day enjoying homegrown Seattle Starbucks coffee and dessert while networking with WWBDs.
A great time was had by all and the question "When is your next event?" was asked by many of our LadyBugsTM as they left for the day. Stay tuned for a LadyBugsTM event in a city near you and visit our "UPCOMING EVENTS" link to see where we are crawling around next!
LadyBug Hugs!
|
