Regional Secretaries Conference
25-27 February 2000

Why Me? ~ Dr Anne Child MD

Dr Child gave an interesting talk on scoliosis in families, and the possibility that there may be a genetic link. Scoliosis itself cannot be passed on genetically, but there are several genetic conditions that will affect bone structure and that can lead to scoliosis.  Identifying this genetic link would enable potential scoliosis subjects to be identified at birth, thus allowing precautions to be taken earlier. People who carry this gene tend to be tall, long-fingered, very supple and loose-limbed.

Pain Management ~ Judith Ralphs ~ St Thomas' Hospital

Judith Ralphs described techniques that are used to allow people with chronic pain to cope. She explained that although they may not be able to reduce the pain, they could reduce the suffering caused by the pain. She described the cognitive behavioural approach as used to improve the quality of life. This teaches patients techniques to identify, examine and change unhelpful thoughts so that their thoughts work for them and help them cope. It teaches useful skills to change unhelpful habits/behaviours, and develop useful practical strategies.

Computers and the Law ~ Al Menzies

Al Menzies explained the Data Protection Act and how it affects SAUK. She introduced the new Website and e-mail addresses.

Surgery for Scoliosis ~ Mr Alan Gardner FRCS

Mr Gardner gave an illustrated talk on the operations and bracing that have been used over the years in the treatment of scoliosis, from the days of halo-pelvic traction to the modern operations in which rods and wires are attached to the spine to hold it in place while the bone-grafts heal.

Cosmetic Surgery for Scoliosis ~ Mr Nick Parkhouse FRCS

Mr Parkhouse gave an illustrated talk on the use of cosmetic surgery in improving the quality of life for scoliosis sufferers and others with abnormalities of the chest area. He showed the marvellous improvements that can be made to bodily shape, and thence to a person's self-image. Costectomy was just one of the procedures that can be carried out to improve a person's shape after they have had a spinal fusion.

Telephone Support Workshop ~ Linda Partidge ~ Contact a Family

Linda Partrige ran a workshop to discuss aspects of providing telephone support for SAUK members.  She gave practical advice and encouragement to the secretaries who frequently have to talk to members who may be worried or upset.

Role of the Regional Secretary ~ Carol Richards

A practical session in which the Regional Secretaries could get together to discuss their roles and suggest ways of improving communication among themselves and with SAUK head office.

Fundraising ~ Howard Rose

Howard Rose gave a talk on effective fundraising and discussed the fundraising currently being undertaken by SAUK.

The meeting was sponsored by Marks and Spencer; we are most grateful to them for their generous grant.