Eating my words

Having moaned long and hard about lack of consultation with the Department of Health, it's great to report that I enjoyed a really valuable and informative meeting with the FaceIt project director yesterday. I have to say, I am really impressed with the way the awareness campaign is being refocused - it demonstrates something which I always consider to be a high quality skill - the ability to reflect, evaluate and develop a plan of action based on existing information. It's a pity I can't disclose a huge amount about this just yet - suffice to say, I was privy to some new materials which are of excellent quality - for example, the 'quick reference guide for GPs' new leaflets and other media which would seem to demonstrate that the whole campaign is stepping up a gear - particularly in the refocusing to specific community groups. It really demonstrates a key issue - namely that trying to produce information about Hep C which is likely to have impact on all the affected groups is incredibly difficult, but by concentrating on the needs of certain people makes the task a great deal more relevant.

I'm really delighted to have had this meeting, because it reinforces my strongly held belief that the only way to move Hep C support and awareness forward is by ensuring that all the organisations involved actively work together. NHCN conference should be a clear demonstration of this. The speakers we have represent several of the key players - the Hep C Trust, the UK Hep C Resource Centre, the British Liver Trust, specialist nurses and consultants. We are also to be joined on the Sunday by a representative of the FaceIt campaign. This ought to make the conference a real forum for unity, and give the chance to share thoughts and ensure that the resources available are used to maximum effect.

Of course, in terms of financial resources, NHCN is bottom of the pile - however, I think we have a huge contribution to make in terms of people, skills and knowledge which ensures we can be a real part of future awareness, and have a major involvement in some of the exciting future events which were discussed yesterday.

I think the other key point stemming from yesterday's meeting was the open and frank discussion which took place. Criticism was given and received honestly and openly, and this has to be good. it wasn't really a 'clear the air' session as that implies some underlying conflict - more a professional discussion in which views were shared and exchanged - at times challenged and at others accepted - but which resulted in a positive outcome. I speak for myself, of course, and hope the feeling is mutual.

Anyway - that has been a real highlight.

Other than that, it's been conference, conference, conference - and I think the major logistics are all sorted. Anyone who wants to come and stay or have a meal is simply too late - but any visitors on the day will be more than welcome. Having expected about 65 people until last week, I'm now expecting in excess of 80 - and probably closer to 100. we have had to change rooms for the meal, and now have fully booked this one - so that's 60 - plus those who are not dining with us. Conference is also being advertised in the Derby Evening Telegraph today. I did a brief telephone interview with a reporter, and a photographer came to see us yesterday, so hopefully some local people will appear as well. With any luck there will be more press coverage next week - I certainly sent out enough copies of the press release!

All of these events, however, pale into insignificance when put alongside the big event for the week - Vicki's first scan. I hope those of you who have had children will excuse me if I have the first time parent's zeal for those rather blotchy images which appear, but looking at them, identifying our baby's head, spine, stomach, arms and legs is an unbelievable experience - not so much as watching the monitor at the hospital, seeing a heartbeat, seeing arms moving and watching baby wriggle and do headstands. That was truly stunning. Main thing is, no problems - all looks well, and it's back for the next scan in 5 weeks.

I think that's about it. All is well, Easter is here, weather is lovely, lawn needs mowing. Life is pretty good!

Take care all.