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Family Conference

Well, it's over, done and dusted.  We had 18 families (including three committee families) - with 30 children, ranging from five months to 16!

Stefan Spinty, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist from Alder Hey Hospital, Liverpool, gave a very comprehensive overview of the diagnostic process with CMT and children, management options, and due to the lack of an orthopaedic surgeon (it seemed to be "conference weekend" this weekend), also gave an overview of some of the surgical options that can be done on younger feet.

The children were entertained by our regular childminder, Alison Prosser, aided by her daughter Catherine, some of the CMT Kids, and Annette Masser - interspersed on Saturday with Dizzy Lizzy providing a "Build A Bear" workshop and lots of fun and games.  Judging by the noise filtering through the dividing wall in the Conferenece Suite, I think a good time was being had by all!

On Saturday evening, we had a lovely meal together, followed by a disco!  

Sunday started with Karin giving a quick rundown on the Young People's Weekend, and showing all the photos from the weekend at the end of October.  The morning's speaker was Marion Main, senior physiotherapist from Great Ormond Street Hospital, who gave a very complete rundown on the management of the CMT feet and legs, including many of the orthotic options that are available.

During her talk, we had a 45 minute break, and Jimbo the Magician delighted the younger audience with his tricks and jokes.  The kids really got involved in it all - I think the adults all enjoyed it too!!

We finished with lunch on Sunday and disappeared off home to collapse!

Next Family Conference - well, we need to discuss amongst the committee whether we can afford to make this an annual event, or perhaps biannually would be more realistic.  But I think it's safe to say there WILL be another one - the question is just when!!