MONDAY
Wow – am I learning a lot!
Depending on your role in the Association, you may already know these things. But I am finding out not just about AAIC specifically, but about our wonderful organization.
For example, did you know:
- that we have a Conference Services department (small but mighty) that plans and manages logistics for such amazing events as AAIC (as well as Leadership Summit and the Advocacy Forum)? Let me tell you, this is a fantastic, energetic, HARD WORKING group of people! I’ve had the pleasure of working with these folks this week, and they are so positive, so friendly, and so efficient…I am in awe! Think of the events you plan…then multiply that!
- that the Alzheimer’s Association awarded $25 million for direct support of research last year? Dr. Carillo announced that staggering fact at the opening Plenary Session this morning!
Let me share some sensory impressions of the past 24 hours:
– the music of dozens of languages and dialects being spoken at once in hallways, on escalators, in the Exhibit Hall. The sounds of old friends reuniting, new alliances being formed, and serious discussions being held. Scientific terminology flying all around me!
– the glorious purple glow of the CN Tower (an iconic landmark of Toronto) last evening. See picture.
– the uplifting sight of men and women, from students to seasoned attendees, of many ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, skin shades, and areas of expertise, walking and talking, sitting in pairs or small groups, huddled together, sharing ideas, debating, collaborating, questioning, expounding, listening.
My first task of the day was to assist with checking in attendees at the “Early Career Mentoring Breakfast.” Most of the more than 100 participants were early career scientists including students, post-doctoral fellows, and early stage investigators; the rest were established scientific leaders who were there to share the wisdom borne of their experience. Harry Johns, in greeting the group, commented that he believes one of the most important aspects of AAIC is the support of these future research leaders, because they represent the cadre who will be making the next wave of advances and discoveries. For me, it was also heartening to see how many of the young scientists were women!
This afternoon I attended one of the Oral Sessions- a panel of six researchers who presented findings from studies related to “Improving Care Electronically and Through the Community,” highlighting the role of technology in dementia care. One of the speakers was from a facility in our chapter area, and she was reporting on a study conducted in conjunction with our local medical school, so it was of special interest to me!
More later!
Your “Cub Reporter” Sherry
The Alzheimer’s Association International Conference® 2016 (AAIC®) is the world’s largest forum for the dementia research community. Researchers, clinicians, care providers and students from over 70 countries gather at AAIC to network and discuss the latest dementia study results, theories and discoveries.
AAIC 2016 will be held in Toronto, Canada at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and will feature more than 90 sessions, 1,700 posters and 475 presentations.
Alzheimer's Association Southeastern Virginia Chapter 