California, here we come! NHF’s 65th Annual Meeting will take place in sunny Anaheim, California, on October 3–5, offering three days of programs, networking opportunities and social events for everyone in the bleeding disorders community.
The theme of this year’s meeting is “United in Progress.” The conference will offer education to improve the lives of people with bleeding disorders at any age or stage. First-timers can take advantage of primer sessions such as “Basics of Hemophilia” and “Basics of VWD.” Adult men who want to learn how best to take care of themselves as they age can attend the “Embracing Your Inner Geezer” session.
Parents can find assistance in making sure their child’s educational needs are met in the “Developing an Appropriate and Effective Section 504 Plan” session. And teens, young adults and their parents can find guidance in the “Off to College” and “Careers: Unlocking the Mystery of the Rest of My Life” sessions.
New this year is a track for women and girls with bleeding disorders. Sessions include “Von Willebrand Factor Deficiency: Challenges for Girls and Women” and “Can We Talk? Moms, Daughters and Bleeding Disorders.” Women with bleeding disorders can also connect in a relaxed setting at the Victory for Women reception.
The track for chapter staff and volunteers continues to expand, with sessions on creating great graphic design projects on a budget, online fundraising options, board development and balancing multiple projects.
The medical track for physicians and researchers offers plenary sessions on obesity, weight management and bariatric surgery, and one on HIV disease management. There will also be presentations of the top research poster abstracts and an update on gene therapy clinical research.
For nurses, there will be a session on caring for women with bleeding disorders through their lifespan. Other sessions will detail case studies of inhibitors and pain management. Social workers can look forward to getting creative in “Unlocking Your Inner Child,” a session on overcoming writer’s block, as well as sessions on managing angry patients and exploring communication issues for couples. During NHF’s Annual Meeting, physical therapists will learn about presentation skills, exercise and wellness, and motivational interviewing. Also, for the first time, pharmacists can attend the “Hemophilia Specialty Pharmacy Management” symposium on Thursday, October 3.
As always, the Exhibit Hall at NHF’s Annual Meeting will be an exciting place to see the latest products and services from pharmaceutical companies, homecare companies and nonprofits. And everyone will want to attend the Final Night Party, California style—a family-friendly event with music, dancing, activities for kids and great food.
The Anaheim Marriott, the host hotel for this year’s meeting, is less than a mile from the famous Disneyland® Resort, and within walking distance of Downtown Disney and the Anaheim GardenWalk.