We Can Make It Happen

by Mary Jo Piatek

Wow, what a great experience this conference was for me. I learned and understand this disease so much better now. I would like to thank the PHA, I was a lucky person to receive a scholarship for the conference, without it, it may have been a problem to get there. I went with my sister, both of us were glad we went. She even said she understands this disease a little bit better as well as understands the way I feel.

It's such a big world out there and sometimes you think you are all alone, but now I know that is not the case. Talking to different people, and knowing we are all in it together.

I can't say enough about the PHA and the hard work and dedication they put into this, I'm happy I joined and to be a part of it.

I do wish the disease could be caught much earlier and one day there be a cure for it. I was diagnosed 2 1/2 years ago and never heard of it before. I guess you can say it was a new beginning. Sometimes it's still hard to accept. I know there were some people a lot worse off than me and some were so much better. All the speakers were great, the Dr's & nurses were just as great.

Once again I thank everyone who is involved -- you're doing a great job and it shows. I hope to attend the next conference in Indiana as well. Keep up the great work and thank you again. It was an experience I will never forget.

WE CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN