Thalassemia Patients and Friends

Discussion Forums => Announcements => Topic started by: Andy Battaglia on September 01, 2008, 04:03:59 PM

Title: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on September 01, 2008, 04:03:59 PM
The schedule of events for the upcoming Singapore Conference can be viewed at

http://www.thalassaemia2008singapore.org/004ScientificProgramme.htm

If you have not yet registered, please do so soon. The schedule looks excellent and the conference will be well worth attending.



Text version with no columns: There are two simultaneous conferences.

1) 11th International Conference on Thalassaemia &  Haemoglobinopathies (Symposiums)
2) 13th International TIF Conference for Thalassaemia Patients & Parents (Sessions)

   
Scientific Programme
Pre-Conference Workshop, 7 October 2008 (Tuesday)
Main Programme, Day 1, 8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
Main Programme, Day 2, 9 October 2008 (Thursday)
Main Programme, Day 3, 10 October 2008 (Friday)
Main Programme, Day 4, 11 October 2008 (Saturday)
Novartis Lunch Symposium, 8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
Novartis Dinner Symposium, 8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
Osato Lunch Symposium, 9 October 2008 (Thursday)

Pre-Conference Workshop, 7 October 2008 (Tuesday)

KK Women's and Children's Hospital
The Auditorium
Workshop 1 ( 0900 - 1200 )
Magnetic Resonance T2* Assessment of Iron Overload
Workshop 2 ( 1400 - 1700 )
Diagnosis of Thalassaemia - Laboratory Methods, Molecular Basis and Screening Strategy
TOP>

Main Programme, Day 1, 8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
Ballroom 1
Opening Ceremony ( 0815 - 0915 )
Plenary 1 ( 0915 - 1000 )
Thalassaemia As a Global Health Problem,
Sir David WEATHERALL, United Kingdom
Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3) ( 1000 - 1045 )

Room 1
   Room 2    Room 3

11th International Conference on Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies
   

13th International TIF Conference for
Thalassaemia Patients & Parents
   

Free Paper Sessions
Symposium 1 ( 1045 - 1215 )
Molecular Therapeutics and Alternative Therapies for Thalassaemia
Chairpersons: Prof Eliezer RACHMILEWITZ, Israel /
Dr Michael ANTONIOU, United Kingdom

    * Gene Therapy - Is It A Reality?
      Dr Michael ANTONIOU, United Kingdom
    * Molecular Therapies in Beta-Thalassaemia
      Prof THEIN Swee Lay,
      United Kingdom
    * Oxidative Stress in Thalassaemia and
      Haemoglobinopathies: Mechanism and Treatment
      Prof Eliezer RACHMILEWITZ, Israel

   
Session 1 (1045 - 1215 )
Chairpersons: Prof Alan COHEN,United States of Amercia / Mrs Aggie MICHAEL, Singapore
What is Thalassaemia?

    * Background - How / Why Do We Get Thal? How Does It Become Major? When Does Treatment Start?
      Dr Paul TELFER, United Kingdom
    * Prevention, Screening & Ethics
      Dr Mary PETROU, United Kingdom
    * Transplantations
      Dr Phil DARBYSHIRE, United Kingdom

Blood Transfusions

    * Why Do Patients Need Blood Transfusions, What Happens During Transfusions? What Do We Do When There's A

Reaction?
      Dr Diana TEO, Singapore

Q & A
   

Free Papers 1
( 1045 - 1215 )
Novartis Lunch Symposium
(For Medical Professionals only)
( 1215 - 1345 )    Lunch Break
( 1215 - 1330 )    Lunch Break
( 1215 - 1330 )
Symposium 2 ( 1345 - 1515 )
Epidemiology
Chairpersons: Sir David WEATHERALL,
United Kingdom / Dr Vip VIPRAKASIT, Thailand

    * Why Are The Haemoglobin Disorders So Common?
      Sir David WEATHERALL, United Kingdom
    * Global Distribution and Heterogeneity of the Alpha Thalassaemias
      Dr Vip VIPRAKASIT, Thailand
    * Epidemiology of the Beta Thalassaemias
      Dr Roshan COLAH, India

   
Session 2 ( 1330 - 1500 )
Chairpersons: Dr TAN Ru-San, Singapore /
Ms Gargi PAHUJA, United States of America
Blood Donation

    * How to Encourage Voluntary Blood Donation?
      Myths & Beliefs of Blood Giving
      Speaker to be confirmed
    * Blood Transfusion and What It Means to
      Thalassaemics?
      Mr George CONSTANTINOU, United Kingdom

Heart & Its Problems

    * Cardiac Problems & Solutions
      Dr Malcolm WALKER, United Kingdom
    * Cardiac Problems & How Do We Deal with It in Asia (Before & After MRI T2*)?
      Dr DAN Giap Liang, Malaysia

Q & A
   

Free Papers 2
( 1330 - 1500 )

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1515 - 1545 )
   

Tea break at Exhibition Area
(Concourse, Level 3)
( 1500 - 1535 )

Symposium 3 ( 1545 - 1725 )
Prevention
Chairpersons: Dr Mary PETROU, United Kingdom /
Dr THONG Meow Keong, Malaysia

    * Screening and Ethics of Prevention
      Dr Mary PETROU, United Kingdom
    * Thalassaemia Screening Programmes: The
      Malaysian Experience
      Dr THONG Meow Keong, Malaysia
    * Non-Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis
      Prof Rossa CHIU, Hong Kong SAR
    * Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis
      Prof Anver KULIEV, United States of America
    * Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis: The Singapore Experience
      A/Prof Samuel CHONG, Singapore

   
Session 3 ( 1530 ?1700 )
Chairpersons: Dr Paul TELFER, United Kingdom /
Ms LEOW Siew Tin, Singapore

    * Growth & Development - Puberty
      Dr Nikos SKORDIS, Cyprus
    * Endocrinology
      Dr Vera OH, Singapore
    * Bones, Osteoporosis
      Dr Ersi Dimoula VOSKARIDOU, Greece
    * Diet
      Ms Christine ONG, Singapore

Q & A
   

Free Papers 3
( 1530 - 1710 )

Novartis Dinner Symposium
(For Medical Professionals only)
( 1830 - 2100 )
   
TOP>
Main Programme, Day 2, 9 October 2008 (Thursday)
Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
Room 1    Room 2
11th International Conference on
Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies    13th International TIF Conference for Thalassaemia Patients & Parents
Plenary 2 ( 0800 - 0835 )
Survival Trends in Thalassaemia Major
Dr Caterina BORGNA-PIGNATTI, Italy    
Symposium 4 ( 0835 - 1000 )
Infections in Thalassaemia
Chairperson: Dr TAN Ban Hock, Singapore / Dr KOH Pei Lin, Singapore

    * Immune Status of Chronically Transfused Patients
      Dr LI Chi Kong, Hong Kong SAR
    * Overview of Infections in Thalassaemia
      Prof Galia RAHAV, Israel
    * Management of Asplenic Patients
      Dr TAN Ban Hock, Singapore

   Parents/Patients Interactive Session
( 0830 - 1000 )

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3) ( 1000 - 1020 )
Symposium 5 ( 1020 - 1150 )
Cardiac Complications
Chairperson/s:Dr TAN Ru San, Singapore/
Dr Athanasios AESSOPOS, Greece

    * The Heart in Transfusion Dependent Thalassaemia
      Dr Athanasios AESSOPOS, Greece
    * The Role of MRI T2*
      Dr Dudley PENNELL, United Kingdom
    * Treatment of Heart Failure in Thalassaemia Major
      Dr John WOOD, United States of Amercia

   Parents/Patients Interactive Session
( 1020 - 1150 )

Lunch Break
( 1150 - 1305 )

Osato Lunch Symposium (By Invitation)
( 1150 - 1320 )
   

Lunch Break
( 1150 - 1305 )

Launch of TIF New Guidelines Book
(1320 - 1340)
Dr Androulla ELEFTHERIOU, Cyprus
   
Plenary 3 ( 1340 - 1420 )
New Insights in Iron Chelation
Prof Antonio PIGA, Italy
Symposium 6 ( 1420 - 1540 )
Iron Chelation 1
Chairpersons: Dr Dudley PENNELL, United Kingdom /
Prof John PORTER, United Kingdom

    * Pathophysiology of Iron Overload
      Dr Z Ioav CABANTCHIK, Israel
    * Iron Overload: Consequences
      Prof John PORTER, United Kingdom
    * Iron Chelation: Overview and Monitoring
      Prof Maria Domenica CAPPELLINI, Italy
    * Iron Chelation: Impact on Survival
      Dr Paul TELFER, United Kingdom

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1540 - 1610 )
Symposium 7
( 1610 - 1740 )
Iron Chelation 2
Chairpersons: Prof Aurelio MAGGIO, Italy / Prof Maria Domenica CAPPELLINI, Italy

    * Future Developments in Oral Iron Chelators
      Dr Des R RICHARDSON
    * Is There an Optimal Strategy for Iron Chelation?
      Prof Renzo GALANELLO, Italy
    * Management of the 'Difficult'Iron Overloaded Patient
      Prof Aurelio MAGGIO, Italy

     

Conference Dinner (By Ticket ONLY)
( 2000 - 2230 )
TOP>

Main Programme, Day 3, 10 October 2008 (Friday)

Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre

Room 1
   

Room 2
   

Room 3
11th International Conference on Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies    13th International TIF Conference for

Thalassaemia Patients & Parents    
Plenary 4 ( 0800 - 0835 )
Fertility and Pregnancy in Thalassaemia Major
Dr Susan M TUCK, United Kingdom    
Session 4 ( 0800 - 0930 )
Chairpersons: Prof Antonio PIGA, Italy/ Mr George CONSTANTINOU, United Kingdom

    * HbE & Thalassaemia Intermediate
      Dr Vip VIPRAKASIT, Thailand

Chelation

    * Different Types of Chelators
      Prof Alan COHEN, United States of America
    * Iron Chelation Treatment Under Economic Restrictions
      Dr Suthat FUCHAROEN, Thailand
    * Iron Overload and Consequences
      Dr GOH Ai Sim, Malaysia

Q & A
Symposium 8 ( 0835 - 1020 )
Endocrine Complications
Chairperson/s: Dr Ratna CHATTERJEE, United Kingdom /
Dr Rekha BAJORIA, United Kingdom

    * New Perspectives on Hormone Replacement Therapy in Thalassaemia
      Dr Ratna CHATTERJEE, United Kingdom
    * Growth and Thalassaemia
      Dr Fabian YAP, Singapore
    * Current Perspectives on Pregnancies in Thalassaemia Major
      Dr Rekha BAJORIA, United Kingdom
    * The Burden of Osteoporosis in Thalassaemia
      Dr Ersi Dimoula VOSKARIDOU, Greece
    * The Impact of Genotype on Endocrine Complications
      Dr Nikos SKORDIS, Cyprus

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1020 - 1040 )
Symposium 9 (1040 - 1210)
Liver Disease in Thalassaemia
Chairpersons: Dr LEE Lai Heng, Singapore / Prof Ali TAHER, Lebanon

    * Overview of Liver Disease in Thalassaemia
      Dr James O'BEIRNE, United Kingdom
    * Update on Management and Prevention of Hepatitis B
      A/Prof CHOW Wan Cheng, Singapore
    * Hepatitis C in Thalassaemia Patients
      Dr Roland CHONG, Singapore

   
Session 5 ( 1000 - 1130 )
Chairpersons:
Tan Ee Shien, Singapore / Mr Michael MICHAEL, United Kingdom
Psychosocial Problems

    * Patient's Perspectives
      Ms Louisa Di PIETRO, Australia
    * Parent's Perspectives
      Mrs Nailya T GULIYEVA, Azerbaijian

Hospital & Doctor Relationships

    * Doctors' Relationship and Responsibilities
      Prof Amal EL-BESHLAWY, Egypt
    * Hospital’s Relationship and Responsibilities
      To be confirm

Q & A

Lunch Break
( 1210 - 1310)
   

Lunch Break
( 1130 - 1300)
   
Plenary 5 (1310 - 1345)
Emerging Infections in Blood Transfusions
Dr Roger Y DODD, United States of America    Session 6 ( 1300 - 1430 )
Chairpersons: Dr GOH Ai Sim, Malaysia/
Mr Riyad ELBARD, Canada
Symposium 10 ( 1345 - 1525 )
Blood Transfusion
Chairpersons: Dr Diana TEO, Singapore/
Prof Constantina POLITIS, Greece

    * Blood Safety in the Asia Pacific Region
      Dr Diana TEO, Singapore
    * Haemovigilance and Transfusion Safety
      Dr Peter FLANAGAN, New Zealand
    * Advances in Blood Transfusion Therapy
      Prof Alan COHEN, United States of America
    * Red Blood Cell Pathogen Inactivation
      Prof Constantina POLITIS, Greece

   
Liver & Its Problems

    * How / Why Liver Has Its Problems? What are the Problems? How
      to Detect (Signs and Symptoms)?
      Dr LI Chi Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
    * Future Treatments for Liver Problems / Failure
      Dr James O'BEIRNE, United Kingdom

Iron Measurement - MRI & Its Roles

    * T2*
      Dr TAN Ru-San, Singapore
    * Ferriscan
      Dr Farrukh SHAH, United Kingdom

Q & A

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1525 - 1545 )
   

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3) ( 1430 - 1500 )
Symposium 11 (1545 - 1715)
Thalassaemia Intermedia / HbE
Chairpersons: Prof Eliezer RACHMILEWITZ, Israel /
Dr Anselm LEE, Singapore

    * Thromboembolic Complications in Thalassaemia Intermedia
      Prof Ali TAHER, Lebanon
    * Cardiac Function and Abnormalities in Thalassaemia Intermedia
      Dr Athanasios AESSOPOS, Greece
    * Haemoglobin E-b-Thalassaemia
      Dr Suthat FUCHAROEN, Thailand

   
Session 7 (1500 - 1610)
Chairpersons: Dr Michael ANGASTINIOTIS, Cyprus /
Mrs Nailya T GULIYEVA, Azerbaijan

    * Government Relationships & Responsibilities
      Ms Dawn ADLER, United States of America
    * Nurses' Relationships & Responsibilities
      S/r Emma PRESCOTT, United Kingdom
    * Nurses' Relationships & Responsibilities, The Asian Experience
      S/r OOI Ee Ee, Malaysia

Q & A
     

Asian Network of Collaboration
( 1800 - 2200 )
TOP>

Main Programme, Day 4, 11 October 2008 (Saturday)

Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre

Room 1
   

Room 2
   

Room 4
11th International Conference on Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies    13th International TIF Conference for

Thalassaemia Patients & Parents    
Plenary 6 ( 0800 - 0835 )
The Future of Stem Cell Transplant in Thalassaemia
Prof Guido LUCARELLI, Italy          
Symposium 12 ( 0835 - 1000 )
Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Chairpersons: Prof Guido LUCARELLI, Italy /
Dr William HWANG, Singapore

    * Stem Cell Transplant for Thalassaemia - Who Should Have It?
      Prof Guido LUCARELLI, Italy
    * Stem Cell Transplant for Thalassaemia - Experience in a Developing Country
      Prof LIN Hai Peng, Malaysia
    * Cord Blood Banking and Transplant in Thalassaemia
      Dr William HWANG, Singapore

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1000 - 1020 )
Symposium 13 ( 1020 - 1200 )
Psychosocial Care
Chairpersons: Dr Michael ANGASTINIOTIS, Cyprus /
Dr CHAN Mei Yoke, Singapore

    * Improving the Quality of Life in Thalassaemia
      Prof Antonio PIGA, Italy
    * The Adolescent Thalassaemic
      Dr Michael ANGASTINIOTIS, Cyprus
    * Strategies to Ensure Compliance to Treatment in Thalassaemia
      Dr Caterina BORGNA-PIGNATTI, Italy
    * Patients' Perspective
      Mr George CONSTANTINOU, United Kingdom

   

 
   

2nd Ithanet Scientific Workshop
(1030 - 1250)

Lunch Break
( 1200 - 1315)
   

Lunch Break
(1250 - 1400)
Symposium 14 ( 1315 - 1455 )
Organisation of Thalassaemia Services
Chairperson/s: Prof Alan COHEN, United States of America /
Prof Antonio PIGA, Italy

    * Organisation of Thalassaemia Services: The Sardinian
      Experience
      Prof Renzo GALANELLO, Italy
    * Thalassaemia Services in Asia: The Asian Thalassaemia
      Network
      Dr Suthat FUCHAROEN, Thailand
    * The Role of TIF and Patient Associations in Promoting the
      Quality of Thalassaemia Services
      Mr Panos ENGLEZOS, Cyprus
    * Patients' Rights
      Dr Androulla ELEFTHERIOU, Cyprus
    * Introduction to M.Sc Course in Haemoglobinopathies
      Dr Rekha BAJORIA, United Kingdom

   

2nd Ithanet Scientific Workshop
(1400 - 1500)

Tea break at Exhibition Area (Concourse, Level 3)
( 1455 - 1515 )
Symposium 15 ( 1515 - 1600 )
Alpha Thalassaemia
Chairperson/s: Dr LAW Hai Yang, Singapore /
Prof Swee Lay THEIN, United Kingdom

    * HbH Disease: A Wide Spectrum of Clinical Severity
      Dr Vip VIPRAKASIT, Thailand
    * Spectrum of Alpha Thalassaemia Mutations in SE Asia
      Dr LAW Hai Yang, Singapore
    * Understanding Alpha-globin Gene Regulation
      Dr Richard GIBBONS, United Kingdom

   

Parents' Interactive Session
(1515 - 1630)
   
Symposium 16 ( 1600 - 1700 )
Sickle Cell Disease
Chairperson/s: Dr Anselm LEE, Singapore /
Dr Mark WALTERS, United States of America

    * Pathophysiology of Sickle Cell Disease
      Dr Paul TELFER, United Kingdom
    * Prevention of Complications in Sickle Cell Disease
      Dr Bernard DAVIS, United Kingdom
    * Stem Cell Transplantation for Sickle Cell Anaemia: Why, When
      and How?
      Dr Mark WALTERS, United States of America

   

National Association Interactive Sessions ?
Developed Countries & Developing Countries
( 1630 - 1730 )
TOP>

A Novartis-Sponsored Satellite Lunch Symposium,
8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
The Role of Bisphosphonates in Increasing Bone Mineral Density in Patients with Thalassaemia-Induced

Osteoporosis
1230 - 1235    Welcome and Introduction     Ersi Voskaridou
1235 - 1255    Osteoporosis in Thalassaemia Patients

    * Prevalence of osteoporosis in patients with thalassaemia and contributing factors (eg, hypogonadism,

bone marrow expansion)
    * Dysregulation of bone metabolism – activation of bone resorption in patients with thalassaemia
    * Zoledronic acid for treatment of thalassaemia
      -induced osteoporosis – dosing regimens and results

   Ersi Voskaridou
1255 - 1315    The Role of Bone Markers in Thalassaemia – A Haematologic Perspective

    * Bone markers as measures of ongoing bone metabolism and response to therapy
    * Zoledronic acid in patients with thalassaemia
      – effect on bone markers and correlation with improved skeletal health

   Evangelos Terpos
1315 - 1325    Questions and Answers    Ersi Voskaridou
Evangelos Terpos
1325 - 1330    Concluding Remarks and Adjournment     Ersi Voskaridou
TOP>

A Novartis-Sponsored Satellite Dinner Symposium,
8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
Optimizing Iron Chelation Therapy:
Bridging Clinical Data and Patient Management
1830 – 1930    Dinner    
1930 – 1935    Welcome and introduction     John Porter (London, UK)
1935 – 2000    Complete iron chelation: progressing insights

Content

    * Iron overload and organ damage
    * Cardiac iron loading due to transfusional iron overload 
    * NTBI and control with deferasirox
    * Removal of cardiac and hepatic iron with deferasirox

   John Porter (London, UK)
2000 – 2025    Iron chelation therapy; what have we learned recently?

Content

    * Beneficial effects of iron chelation therapy
    * Short overview currently available iron chelators 
    * TIF guidelines: iron chelation algorithm
    * Deferasirox
      - 3.5 year clinical trial data on efficacy and safety
      - new data on doses > 30 mg/kg/day
    * Effect of deferasirox on quality of life

   Maria Domenica Cappellini (Milan, Italy)
2025 – 2050    How to optimally manage iron toxicity in our daily practice

Content

    * Case study of a patient with thalassaemia major who is treated effectively with deferasirox (dose > 30

mg/kg/day). The case presentation will focus on:
      - Tcorrect dosing (starting dose and titration) of deferasirox
      - adverse event management

   Ali Taher (Beirut, Lebanon)
2050 – 2100    Panel discussion    
TOP>

Osato Research Institute Lunch Symposium, 9 October 2008 (Thursday)
Protection of Oxidative Stress in Hemoglobinopathies and in DNA damaged liver cells by Fermented Papaya

Preparation (FPP)
Osato Research Institute is proud to host a Sponsored Lunch Symposium
on October 9th , 2008 at the International Thalassemia Conference

This free Lunch Symposium is being presented at
Ballroom 2 from 11H50 to 13H05
and its goal is to share with the medical professionals the clinical trials on:

Protection of Oxidative Stress in Hemoglobinopathies and in DNA damaged liver cells by Fermented Papaya

Preparation (FPP)


Introduction

Eliezer Rachmilewitz , MD
Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon-Israel


Speakers

What is Oxidative Stress?
Andrew Jenner, Ph.D.
National University of Singapore

The Effect of Fermented Papaya Preparation ( FPP ) on oxidative stress in hemoglobinopathies
Eitan Fibach, Ph.D.
( Hadassah University Hospital, Ein-Kerem, Jerusalem, Israel )

DNA Protection in the liver by FPP,
Evidence from clinical trials
Francisco Marotta , Ph.D.
University of Milano , Italy


Keep in mind that seating is limited to 500, so please come early to reserve your seat at the Lunch

Symposium. We hope to see you there.

We encourage you to visit Osato International exhibiting booth # 6 during the conference to learn more about

our product and the numerous independent scientific publications.
TOP>
* Programme subject to change without prior notice.


                                  Organised by:                                           Supported by       

       Conference Secretariat &
                                                                                                             

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  ITC 2008 Conference website updated as of 08/28/2008
   
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: §ãJ¡Ð ساجد on September 02, 2008, 03:53:35 AM
Wow! quite a few things going around!
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on September 02, 2008, 04:21:17 AM
I am looking forward to hearing how they address these items. 

I hope Micheal Antoniou has something exciting to say:) 


Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: nice friend on September 04, 2008, 06:37:41 AM
hey ...
why dont you try to shooot  all conference  .. and then upload on youtube ... then it willl available for all members .  and all over the world for internet users..
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 02, 2008, 05:07:41 AM
Hi Andy

I was going thru the agenda and there are some interesting topics running parallely, how should we divide ourselves so that none of the topics get missed up.

Also is there a way it will be available for other members. Have you spoken to Kymn, or shal I talk to her.

Thanks

Puja
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 02, 2008, 02:29:30 PM
Hi Puja,

Keep in mind that the scientific programs are sometimes quite hard to follow for long periods as they are quite technical, so you may want to plan to spend more time in the patient and parent programs, which tend to deal with the issues that patients and parents face, rather than the direction new research is directed. I do go to quite a few of the scientific presentations also, but find I have my limits as my brain goes numb after absorbing so much information. I think the best approach is to make some priorities of what you want to hear the most and make a point of attending those first. Be flexible and don't feel bound to sit through something if you fond yourself losing interest in a particular presentation. Take a break and check out what else is going on or just mingle with others who are hanging out in the common areas. There may be time when people split up to cover the different things going on and hopefully we can get fairly good coverage of most of the events by doing that.

I have not heard from anyone involved in the conference recently and have avoided contacting them as I assume at this point, the preparations are keeping them very busy. You may want to contact her with any questions you have.


Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 03, 2008, 02:52:57 AM
Hi Andy

Sorry to confuse you guys!.


 However I clarified with Kymn(Eponine), Parents will be allowed only for Room 2 presentations, cos HSG(Health Authority of S'pore) restricts the room one presentations only for Doctors. I asked Kymn wether you wil allowed, so she was not sure about that as you are signed up as  supporter and not a Doctor. i think from all of us only Dr marwaha will be allowed to attend and the transcripts and stuff only he might have an access to it. As for us we might not have an access to anything, I was wondering how will we share it with the rest of our group.

What we can do is may be we can meet the specfic Doctors later and ask them, stuff.

I am in touch with S'pore people, let me know if u need anything to be done.



 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 03, 2008, 03:49:20 AM
If we are not allowed to attend the medical presentations, the conference will have a greatly reduced value and for myself, almost NO value, resulting in a huge waste of time and money for me and most others. If this is the case, the organizers had a responsibility to inform us of this long ago and not after it is too late to change our plans.

I am completely disgusted. It is a 26 hour trip for me each way and the trip is costing me thousands of dollars and for what? Can anyone from Singapore answer what is the point of the conference if I am supposed to attend What is Thalassaemia and Why Do Patients Need Blood Transfusions, rather than Molecular Therapeutics and Alternative Therapies for Thalassaemia??? This is utterly ridiculous and if the explanation is the government doesn't allow this, then TIF had absolutely NO business allowing Singapore to hold this conference!
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 03, 2008, 09:22:08 AM
Hi Andy

I spoke to Kymn and Derrick at length. Has Derrick replied to yourmail. I told him people are flying in from USA,Egypt, India and all over the place basically. Also that we are very much aware of the basics and our interest is the more technical stuff which is critical for us. They said even they have argued and it is the against the law. The sad part is we would have been told this on the registeration stage and I just happened to call Kymn when I was thinking who wil attend what to cover all the topics, so that we donot miss out anything.  They should have indicated it clearly on the website.

According to Derrick we wil be allowed to attend the Room 1 in which Room 2 has been indicated as grey boxes. Even after talking to them the conclusion is it is agaisnt the law, we cannot attend the important presentations like molecular research etc.

Wonder what we will do, second day looks as only parents interactives session.

 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 03, 2008, 02:26:21 PM
Hi Puja,

No one from the Singapore organizers even had the courtesy to respond to my emails, my post here, or on Facebook. They have rendered this conference a sad, expensive joke on the attendees and they knew exactly what they were doing. The ONLY thing that has mattered the entire time for TIF, UKTS and the Singapore thal society, was holding the conference in Singapore. We have been intentionally misled by a small group whose agenda has absolutely nothing to do with providing a worthwhile experience to the many patients and parents who have spent huge amounts of money and are taking the time off from work or school and their lives to attend what they think is a medical conference. Instead we will be treated with topics with names like What is Thalassaemia?  Hmmm...didn't someone here write an article with that very name so that people who knew very little about thal could be introduced to what is involved in thal and its treatments? Do I really need to fly across the world at great expense to hear a presentation on that???

I am completely disgusted and now I have to convince myself to still get on that plane early tomorrow morning to begin a 26 hour trek to Singapore so I can learn what thalassemia is and why thals need blood transfusions. I am sick about this. For those thinking we will all come back with mountains of new information, please don't expect much, if anything.

Several of us have been joking about getting arrested in Singapore because it is known for being a very restrictive country. Who would have thought the reason we'd be arrested would be for attending the conference itself?

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Narendra on October 03, 2008, 02:47:10 PM
Andy,

I absolutely agree with you. It is surprising that they (Singapore Conference Organizers) were NOT upfront and did not mention earlier that the medical conferences are only for doctor's. I am very surprised and can see why you are mad on them. For knowing the common things about Thalassemia - we have to meet at a global level !! - which lot of us know in our dreams now

What we need to hear - What are the advances done, What are the possible new cures coming up and the new medical advancements - which most likely will be discussed in the medical conferences

Andy --> While, I can understand your dismay - I would say - Try to see the positives of what you are going to get. You going to meet a lot of buddies you wanted to see. You get to take a break from your daily life (I know - that is all at the expense of your time/money/energy and lot of scheduling you might have to go around). But, Andy - Let's look at the positive side of it for now.

Have a nice time and do let us know if you need anything, while you are there.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 03, 2008, 02:50:17 PM
That is frustrating and wste of a lot of money and time. my life is up side down and my children are moving to another house for what????? All important lectures are in room one, nothing important at all in room 2

Andy , Puja, Eponine.. when i received the invoice of registration it stated clearly that parents have the right to attend all scientific sessions in room 1 and 2 except the workshops as found below.

Quote
Patient / Parent / Supporter
Name badge, conference bag, programme cum abstract book.
Admission to all scientific sessions at the 11th International Conference on Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies and the 13th International TIF Conference for Thalassaemia Patients & Parents (excluding the Pre-Conference Workshops) and trade exhibition.
Invitation to opening ceremony.
One lunch and two tea breaks per full-day conference.
Certificate of Attendance.

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 03, 2008, 03:26:02 PM
Manal,

You were the first person I thought of when I heard about this. I know how seriously we both take these scientific presentations and how much this will diminish the value of this conference for us. I think we should all have our registration receipts printed out to show at the door when they refuse admission. We should all also demand refunds. And we should also demand and end to TIF as the body that represents thalassemics internationally.

Narendra, seeing everyone is really great but it does not justify the time, expense or upset to our lives that this long distance travel causes. The organizers and TIF need to be held accountable for this unbelievable act of deception.

This must be the last conference location that is chosen because of reasons like the shopping is good and some org big shot gets to visit family! The conferences have to be returned to the people that they are supposedly held for or this site will never again promote or recommend another TIF conference. TIF has long forgotten the average thal and has become an organization full of people who want something for themselves.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 03, 2008, 03:52:33 PM
Thanks Andy for your constant concern :hugfriend

I will print all the invoices even the hotel booking, who knows :dunno ???

i will let you know if i receive anything 

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 03, 2008, 07:05:44 PM
I too have emailed the addresses you gave me andy, and wrote on the facebook wall of the thalassemia conference group all of my frustrations.. No reply yet... Already disappointed before it started....

Manal, i remember reading it too in the invoice... i already have it printed as well.. We should all meet at the registration and try whatever we can..

i was so frustrated that i even called my work organisation back home today, asking for ideas.. since i worked there before as a lab. tech trainee in a thalassemia screening lab, had the idea of printing cards in my name as such or getting some letter from Society for Health Education, stating that I am both thal patient and technical.. but i doubt that it would work since im already registered under the conference as a patient...

Like i said on the facebook wall, i, for one certainly dont want to sit and listen to what is thalassemia and why do we need blood transfusions while molecular and gene therapy presentations are being held in room 2. 

I am trying to look at the positive side of this, such as meeting u all... and thinking that topics such as growth, development, puberty, cardiac would be worthwile.. but what after that??? i do so want to listen to gene therapy, molecular therapy, pre implantation genetic diagnosis, topics under prevention and iron chelation and all the topics under the main day three 10th october (all about fertility and pregnancy i was soooooooo loooking forward to  :wah)... i still cant beleive i will be missing ALL that  :mad...

like Andy said, for me, it is not worth juggling around my classes and assignments (and my final submissions start in not more than three weeks after the conference)...

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Isis on October 03, 2008, 07:11:17 PM
Thals and their parents have to know more than doctors almost all their lives. Doctors have learned a thing or two about a thing or two from us adult thals. Thals cannot be kept in the dark about their own health issues !!
What rule would ask us not to be involved in our 'lifelong' treatment ?? We are supposed to know the latest in keeping ourselves alive, this knowledge is not available in all countries and for anyone to deprive us of that knowledge for which we had to pay, is akin to mockery. Keeping us away from info that we paid a fortune to attend and people back home waiting to hear about this info ? 
 
That is unbelievable. How can they at this late stage just change terms like that after they have made us pay a good amount in reg. fees.  Not to mention that we travel all the way and at a great expense to self. (not everyone has been sponsored - some of whom go just for fun and have little interest in attending the conference scientific or elementary sessions. )   :gaah

We would consider it highly unprofessional if they actually backed out on terms they have promised when collecting high fees. Esp. when people have spent a fortune to get to Singapore conference for what????  Not to attend some elementary stuff we adult thals could actually hold talks upon  ourselves (and I already do, while counseling the younger thals and their parents). They should have told us this at the start and then have to pay us to attend.  :rotfl

The older thals are bound to feel suckered if the ADULT thals are not allowed to sit in on sessions which they are totally suited to attend to know about their treatments and advances.  It would be a travesty to hold a conference for patients that does not allow the patients themselves to attend.

At this point I hope there has  been some misunderstanding. Also, all who had registered were allowed to attend scientific sessions in Dubai.

Do the organizers realize we have paid to hear about advances and new medical research. The talks that would help the adult thals and also to disburse information back in our own local societies and that is the one they plan to keep us out of .....?????

Even if they agree to refund, what about the fortune we spent on travel and stay ???
 
Why did they not just hold a conference for doctors then!!!
On a positive note, a lot of the talks in the room2 would  be good for the parents of the younger thals and thal infants.  However , it is very frustrating for the older thals and we cannot even back out at the late stage that they spring this news.
 
 :dunno
 
Depressing.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 03, 2008, 07:13:59 PM
Why does Singapore have such restrictive laws about regular people having access to medical information?

Let's go back to Bill C-51 in Canada that we discussed previously. There is a massive worldwide attempt by the pharma industry to take all control over their own health away from people. Singapore was easy to conquer because it is well known as one of the most restrictive societies on earth. Any law that controls people is gleefully adopted there. We must guard against similar attempts in each of our own countries. These supposed regulatory moves by government that will deprive you of the most basic information and even natural supplements and treatments, need to be defeated everywhere.

And meanwhile, we are stuck obligated going to a conference that has very little value, in a country where chewing gum is a punishable offense. Thanks TIF. Thanks Singapore thal society. You got us good this time but never again!
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Smurfette on October 03, 2008, 10:39:23 PM
WOW!!!!

Andy I can feel your anger right down under  :rotfl... What a joke.. I have been to 2 conferences and never have we been told that we arent allowed in the scientific part... I am sure that the other conferences were the same..

I feel for all who have paid that much amount of money and wont be able to attend for what they paid for...

This sucks ( sorry )
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 03, 2008, 10:41:02 PM
So does this mean there is no way at all to attend?? If i have a chance to cancel the trip shall i do so or we may be able by the invoices we have to attend the lectures?/


Andy please advice

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 03, 2008, 11:34:35 PM
hi to everyone,
regarding this topic.
I think it's a shame for thal patients whom I think knows more about thier illness  than those pen pushers, has to spend so much money to go to singapore and to find out that things has not changed the so called sciensist blabe  as always, but is not prepare to listen.

Andy I would boycott, just out of principal.

They always seems to think the are so intelligent that they are in a league of there own  how insensitive treating others like idiots.or  maybe some others, trying to get rich quick from the vulnerables  " what a shame"

I don't Apologize,  thats what I think. I am not sorry if some don't like my thoughts just dont read it.
Kathy
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 03, 2008, 11:57:40 PM
somene explaine anything to me i have taken four kids to stay at my mums and i am takeing one with me to this  this trip
this  has cost me so much i have been saveing from the time i heard about it why would i go to singapore the purpose was for the cure and options and advanced medical were we have the right to decide
 i have paid admin fee but i was going to pay when getting there for the other i was so excitted for information on other options for my son
 why are we kept in the dark
 i cant get a return for my money what shall i do why am i going just to learn why my son needs blood this is unfair really no we must demand to go there why they never said all this from the start at least many of us  wouldnt go just to know why thals need blood this so sad u know i dont care for the money i have spent i care i that i am leaving my son behind to go shoping in singapore were i would have taken him to a holiday instead i am there for 8 days why ? no flight back
i have paid for 8 day hotel to do what ? i think we should all stick toghter and demand our rights  :mad :mad :mad i am so angry i was so excitted trully what do i explaine to my famaliy (oh i went to singapore to tell you guys what may happen in your life and why we need to put blood ) come on THIS IS A JOKE  :huh what shall we do we can just say nothing and do nothing well i am not i want to go in and listen thsi si why i am travelling even if i have to sneak in  :rotfl but then i might need bail money to get me out of jail lol anyone have any ideas ????????????????????? :wink
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 04, 2008, 02:26:44 AM
Asyam, I will be there and I will help you meet the doctors you want to meet. You have seen my picture so just look for my bald head. I am most approachable, so don't worry about being shy. Regardless of what the government there thinks, many of the doctors do and will talk to you outside the halls. We will find these doctors.

Manal, I cannot tell you if you should go but there are many opportunities for making contacts and networking. I think with your position in your organization that you have a chance of making contacts of doctors who may come to your next conference and this alone may be worth it to you.

Everyone else, thank you so much for your support. This is a terrible thing that is being done to the conference attendees and will be the first conference to exclude the VERY patients it purports to care so much about. Think of this irony. This conference does not exist except for you but you are not allowed to hear the very information that can help save your lives! This is shameful. I could care less about the petty false democracy called Singapore, but I do care about all of you and I will do my best to find something worthwhile in this conference.

Those who do go, we need to make some noise and show our displeasure with the conference organizers and this scam that they have pulled off. As far as I am concerned, the board of TIF should be immediately dissolved for allowing this to happen. TIF stopped representing patients long ago and it's time we let TIF slide into the past. Ashish Vazirani had planned to go to Singapore with a framework in place for a new organization that would actually represent thals but he is no more. Thals need better than what TIF supplies and definitely deserve better than this organization based on partying and shopping.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 04, 2008, 03:28:35 AM
Okay Andy, then i will be there and we will all make a big noise togather :bat :bat :bat

By the way, i received an invitation to the opening cermony, did any of you get it? thought that attending the opening is the default since we registered so why we need invitations, isn't it????

Ironically, it said that the conference main theme is ''equal access to quality medical care to all thal patients'' ... shouldn't we have first equal acess to lectures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

manal
 
 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 04, 2008, 03:54:53 AM
I did not receive any invitation to the opening ceremony. When is it?

We will have to make an effort to get doctors to talk outside the conference rooms. Some doctors like Dr Piga are very accessible. Others are harder to corner but they can be, especially if you are aggressive. I would say that as a team, Shilpa and I managed to talk to every single doctor we wanted to at Dubai. If you are aggressive in your approach you will get more out of the conference.

And the wisdom of Ashish will always be remembered by me. He said if you want to meet people, just say hi and introduce yourself. Tell people where you're from and ask the same of them. You may talk for 30 seconds with some and make lasting friends with others. I hope to introduce many people to each other. Lunches are also a nice place to meet. The people you meet and the contacts you make may prove more important than the content, especially since some of the talks we get to see are so basic.

I also hope that many of you will voice your complaints to both the organizers and the doctors. I doubt many doctors would agree to in advance to patients and parents being excluded from their presentations. Quite frankly, this is not what TIF needed. This conference has lagged greatly in registrations and TIF seems to have very little influence with patients anymore. Perhaps the arrogance of TIF has finally rendered them obsolete. We need an organization that is about thals and helping them wherever they live.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 04, 2008, 03:59:09 AM
Andy PM an email where i can forward you the email that i have received

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 04, 2008, 04:01:18 AM
Anyone can always reach me at andy@thalpal.com
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 04, 2008, 04:08:09 AM
My experience is that going through the red tape to meet a doctor is usually more difficult than actually creating a rapport with the doctor.  Doctors are interested in patients, and they are very likely to have discussions with you and give you useful information. 

I am amazed at how much doctors have helped me when I have reached out to them directly.  It is the rif raf that surrounds doctors that makes it impossible to get information from them. 

Good luck guys,  you will all learn a lot and make great connections. 

Andy, the kind of organization you speak of that helps people - I think that we have that kind of a community right here:) 

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 04, 2008, 04:17:04 AM
Quote
Andy, the kind of organization you speak of that helps people - I think that we have that kind of a community right here:) 


Maybe this is not time for discussing this but we seriously should put our group in a some sort of a formal way in order to have easy access to such events and to be formaly addressed by other.

Andy when we are back from Singapore, we need to discuss how could this happen ? what do we need?? We need that those organizers address you in a formal way as our representitive

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 04, 2008, 06:24:19 AM
I recieved an invitation letter as well, to the opening ceromony
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 04, 2008, 08:42:53 AM
thanku andy i will be looking out for u and i will be one of the nosiy ppl
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 05, 2008, 04:53:14 AM
Dont worry guys'

Andy , manal  are already on their way.

I am here, will try to see how best we can manage.

We can talk to the doctors indiviually if all the other resorts fail. Lets hope for the best.

Aysam - this is Puja here u can call me once u land in S'pore. I am sending you a personal message with my contact details.

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Eponine on October 05, 2008, 06:38:44 AM
When the scientific sessions were planned for, parents and patients could attend ALL sessions as like in previous conferences. It was only later when we checked with our Health Science Authority, the regulations are that only medically trained people could enter the medical sessions. The rationale for this ruling is because these people are medically trained and would have the medical knowledge to make an informed decision.

After this regulation was made known to us, we had to change the program and invoices. As a result, those who had registered before the change had invoices that mentioned that they are entitled to enter all scientific sessions. However, knowing that banning parents and patients from the medical segment will incur a lot of wrath (like now) we have persuaded our scientific committee to agree to open certain sessions that we think will benefit the parents, patients and supports. Plenary 3, 6, Symposium 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 are open for all participants. So we are trying our best to pacify everyone here.

All these while, because these thal conferences are held so far away, people in asia have no opportunity to attend the conferences. Now that the conference is in asia after so long, we are obligated to tend to the needs of the people here and that is the objective of the conference. Andy, Isis, Asyam, Manal and the rest of you in this forum have the privilege of having easy access to the education of thalassaemia. You were privileged to be able to attend conferences on thalassaemia. Do you know that there are some parts in Asia where people cant even get blood? They don't even know the basic knowledge of what thalassaemia is all about! They are wondering why their children are dying slowly! They don't give a damn about molecular whatever and gene whatever! They want to stop their loved ones from dying and they want to know how!

We are not out to cheat you, we are not out to get you! For every parent and patient and supporter that signs up, we have to PAY to subsidise for your cost. That's not cheating! How do we cheat if we are making a loss? As an organiser and a patient myself, whenever I make a decision, I ask myself if this was the best for the participants so much so that I get into arguments with my co-organisers. This conference if not for the parents and patients, then what is it for?? But rules are rules. I'm not saying that I'm happy with it, but what can you do? Rules are there for a reason - to protect the people. This particular rule of not allowing lay people into medical sessions is applicable in many other countries as well like Europe and USA. In Singapore, there have been many incidences and accidents recently involving medications and lay people not making an informed choice therefore, these rules are enforced and reinforced. Singapore is what it is today because of the government. It just doesn’t do anyone any good to break the rules.

In a matter of about 20 years Singapore has gone from a developing country to a developed country. This is no mean feat and we have our government to thank and being"one of the most restrictive societies on earth". It may seem ridiculous to you - the banning of chewing gum. But Singapore is known for its cleanliness and greenness. We would not have reached that stage if not for chewing gum. What benefits of any kind are there to chewing gum anyway? It's not like chewing gum will caused you to be healthier or improve the economy. Singapore is has been voted one of the safest cities to live in. I can walk along the streets late at night or wee hours in the morning without my parents nor me worrying about a being mugged, raped, having a drug peddler coming up to me or being shot in the head or getting blown up for no reason. How and why do you think we come to that? Yes, by " being a very restrictive country".  In my opinion, it is such narrow mindedness to judge a country like the way you are doing before you even stepped foot into it. You are condemning a place in which you have never been to and are about to enter.     

But comeon' I've attended thal conferences too. Seriously, the point of attending such a conference is not exactly really to gain more knowledge especially since most of us are already quite knowledgeable in this area. It is the contacts and friends that we know that makes this conference. What the hell are we going to do with  knowledge of molecular therapies, heterogeneity and pre implantation diagnosis - if we even understand what is going on. To be fair Andy, even you said that there is only so much you can take.

I have been working my ass off for this conference. Juggling with my transfusions, chelation, my professional work and taking on this conference which basically is another full time job. I have been working round the clock for the past few months sleeping on the average of 5 hours and not having proper meals. The last few days for me was just conference, conference, conference from the time I wake up till the time I fall asleep. Friends see me and tell me that I'm crazy doing all this for nothing. I have to constantly remind myself that I'm doing this for the greater good of thal and the people that will benefit from it so it came to me as a shock when I read of such slanderous things written about it. I take personal offence when such things are said about the "organisers" because there is basically only 2 of us!! Only in the past couple  months, 3 of us running the conference. Yes, 3 people with their own full time jobs, running a conference for more than 1000 delegates. When you wrote to me Andy and Manal, it was in the heat of preparing for the conference. Like it or not, the conference had to go on and I'm sorry, those were more urgent stuff that I had to tend to. Also, I needed time to find out what was going on and to find a solution before I could adequately reply to you and that is why I could not respond immediately. Would you rather me respond "I don't know and am to busy to bother about this right now"?

I've been trying to accommodate to everyone's request. Andy you remind me to cater for vegetarians cos you are one and I took pains to ensure that there are vegetarian food! I know we can’t please everyone and am prepared for complaints, but nothing can prepare me for "boycott"? " trying to get rich quick from the vulnerables"? "deception"? "Scam"? " getting arrested"? I'm beginning to think that I am one that is all said. It is very disappointing that there are so much speculations without facts.

My question is, why condemn a conference before you even had a chance to experience it for yourself?
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 05, 2008, 08:56:05 AM
Okay Andy, then i will be there and we will all make a big noise togather :bat :bat :bat

By the way, i received an invitation to the opening cermony, did any of you get it? thought that attending the opening is the default since we registered so why we need invitations, isn't it????

Ironically, it said that the conference main theme is ''equal access to quality medical care to all thal patients'' ... shouldn't we have first equal acess to lectures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

manal


Sharmin   What about this posting   what is the difference between my jokes and this one.
If you are going to be picky and started to tell me what and what not to post,
I shall stop posting.
Kathy
 
 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 05, 2008, 09:13:38 AM
To eponine.
I don't know who you are and I don't care much.


Free speech is my democratic right I am entittled to say what I feel .it might not be what you want to hear/
I listen or read  a lot of shit from others,and i deal with it or accept because I respect the other human being point of view, because I know that the other person has the same right as me.

I'm an adult and I don't put up with your shit or anybody for that matter.

Kathy
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 05, 2008, 09:21:24 AM
IF this forum is going to be the harper Valley Payton Place I'm Out of here.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 05, 2008, 10:32:48 AM
Kymn

We are really thankful to you for all the preperations and I know how hard you have worked on this. Please dont take this to heart. We are all very happy to meet each other and i am sure it will be a success. Also I am sure we will be meeting all the Doctors and we can talk to them persoanlly. Please cheer up.

Thanks for trying and getting us into Plenary 3, 6, Symposium 6, 7, 12, 13, 14.


Can atleast a couple of us attend the following, may be we can take turns and divide the topics:

symposium 1 - molecular therapies

symposium4- immune status of chronically transfused, overview of infections in thalassemia.(very important to many of us, specially shilpa), management of asplenic patients(important for me).

plenary 4 - growth and  thalassemia , hormone replacement therapy, endocrine complications - very very important for our growing kids(manal,  and me).
The burdern of osteporosis - important to all of us

symposium : Liver disease in thal : critical again to manal, me and mariam(aysam)

plenary 5: emerging infections in blood transfusions and advance s in blood transfusion therapy - again important to all patients.

symposium 11- Thromboembotic complicatins in thal intermedia, cardiac abnoramlities in thal intermedia - very critical for manal and me.

Symposium 15 and 16 -  we can miss, this is what i feel, i dunno abt the other members.

Please see wht can be done.

Thanks for everything, I really appreciate your help from the bottom of my heart and here i am saying it from my side as well as out thal pals.




Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 05, 2008, 11:21:57 AM
Kymn,

Like Puja said, we are all very thankful for the preparations the three of you organisers put into making the conference happen. In two days we will be witnessing your hard work and dedication to make the conference a success.

And we all appreciate it extremely that you guys have worked hard enough to get us access to those symposiums and plenary.

From your post, I know that you are deeply affected by the attacks that are aimed towards the conference and singapore. I have been lucky to be able to visit singapore on many occassions and everything you said about Singapore is true, from it being the most safest to most cleanest and very well developed. You have every reason to be proud.. However,  you must understand that we all were very excited to go there and this excitment was damped right into frustrations when we learnt about the law and that we could not attend the medical presentations.

quote from you: " All these while, because these thal conferences are held so far away, people in asia have no opportunity to attend the conferences. Now that the conference is in asia after so long, we are obligated to tend to the needs of the people here and that is the objective of the conference. Andy, Isis, Asyam, Manal and the rest of you in this forum have the privilege of having easy access to the education of thalassaemia. You were privileged to be able to attend conferences on thalassaemia. Do you know that there are some parts in Asia where people cant even get blood? They don't even know the basic knowledge of what thalassaemia is all about! They are wondering why their children are dying slowly! They don't give a damn about molecular whatever and gene whatever! They want to stop their loved ones from dying and they want to know how!"

I too was very very excited the conference is in Asia, specially withing reach in Singapore and you are right about the conference needing to tend to people who dont even know what is going on in Thalassemia. Maybe they wont care about moleculars and gene therapies. This is exactly my point, this is the reason why all the papers should be made avaliable so that we are able to choose which ones we want to attend. Those who know and want to know more can attend the medical sessions while those who are still learning the basics can join the non-medical sessions. Again, all am saying here is give the chance to choose.

Quote from Kymn, "But comeon' I've attended thal conferences too. Seriously, the point of attending such a conference is not exactly really to gain more knowledge especially since most of us are already quite knowledgeable in this area. It is the contacts and friends that we know that makes this conference. What the hell are we going to do with  knowledge of molecular therapies, heterogeneity and pre implantation diagnosis - if we even understand what is going on"

This is not entirely true Kymn. True, we would make invaluable contacts and maybe great friends with others.... And with the knowledge, there are people waiting back home at our own organisations, associations (im sure in many organisations in a lots of countries), hungry for any new information from us who attends the conference because they have the means of making something useful happen, not only for thier children but for the rest as well..

Quote from Kymn "I have been working my ass off for this conference. Juggling with my transfusions, chelation, my professional work and taking on this conference which basically is another full time job. I have been working round the clock for the past few months sleeping on the average of 5 hours and not having proper meals. The last few days for me was just conference, conference, conference from the time I wake up till the time I fall asleep. Friends see me and tell me that I'm crazy doing all this for nothing. I have to constantly remind myself that I'm doing this for the greater good of thal and the people that will benefit from it so it came to me as a shock when I read of such slanderous things written about it. I take personal offence when such things are said about the "organisers" because there is basically only 2 of us!! Only in the past couple  months, 3 of us running the conference. Yes, 3 people with their own full time jobs, running a conference for more than 1000 delegates. When you wrote to me Andy and Manal, it was in the heat of preparing for the conference. Like it or not, the conference had to go on and I'm sorry, those were more urgent stuff that I had to tend to. Also, I needed time to find out what was going on and to find a solution before I could adequately reply to you and that is why I could not respond immediately. Would you rather me respond "I don't know and am to busy to bother about this right now"?"


Finally kymn, thank you once again.. we all appreciate all the effort and time the three of you put in this to make it a reality. I understand how hard organising something like a workshop or a conference can be.. Though not on such a large scale, I have been on the organising committee on smaller scales. However, please understand that when we all vented our frustrations of the conference it wasnt personally at you, but at the system who might take what was promised to be a wonderful experience away from us..

I was very disappointed because i wouldnt be able to attend some papers im specially have been looking forward to since I knew about this conference from last year. (I dont think i still can.. its not under the symposiums u mentioned  :(). And also for not letting us know about this sooner. Finding about it the last minute made every one react that way. And had we been informed of this earlier, maybe instead of the comments and feeling cheated we would have had more time and clearer heads to make suggesttions as to how it could be overcome.. All the intelligent brains in this forum could have suggested smething useful am sure.. This is all my opinion and what i feel...

Thank you for trying ure best to figure out a solution and making it possible to sit in a lot of the papers such as 6 7 11 14 15 16... etc... I appreciate it all..

Tc.

btw, i couldnt quote u, that why all the blue quotes  :-\
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 05, 2008, 04:50:23 PM
Dear friends and valuable members of this site,

This site is all about you - and all of you.  We all express our feelings here and sometimes our thoughts conflict - mostly because of misunderstandings and heightened emotions.  We have all been through a lot lately, and many of our feelings are bruised to begin with. 

Eponine, after reading your message I finally see your side of the story - and I understand your position.  Thank you kindly for taking the time to explain.  Please also try to understand the feelings of our members who put their lives on hold and paid great expenses to attend - their words came out of anger and shock when they realized that they may not be able to attend the lectures - which may have been the determining factor for them to attend.  Yes, you are right the other aspects of the conference are important too - but for some people the main deciding reason was gaining attendance to certain lectures.  This miscommunication led to their angry feelings and obvious display of anger.   I am sorry for any hurt feelings on either side. 

As for the rest of our members - this site is for you - to help you and to help others.  Each and everyone of you plays a very very special role here and although we can - I hope we won't walk away from our cause here.  If there are differences we need to discuss them.   We all care for each other and have supported each other through so much.  I cannot walk away from all of you - and from Andy. 

My son is thriving today because of advice that I have received on this site.  Andy's research and advice has changed my life and countless other lives.  I will do whatever I can, however I can to be loyal to him and for the best interest of our members.  I hope you all feel the same way.  If you have questions please feel free to PM me - I am happy to discuss anything with you - you are the reason that Andy does what he does - that is why he has spent thousands of dollars and is on a different continent than his family at this time. 

Our great minds like Andy, Manal, Puja and every other member who is in attendance needs us to support their efforts while they are there.  Our posts need to support their efforts while they are there.  What good is our freedom of speech if it deters their efforts and 'wastes' their large sums of money and time?  We are here to make things easier, not more difficult for one another. 

Please let us be respectful of one another, please let's decide that we are here to stay and let us take time to explain our positions - and please please let us give one another a chance to explain.  I came to this site in desperate need for information for my son - I stayed because of the friendship and support - and the opportunity to give back what I have received.  I know that you are all here for the same reasons.  I am inspired by all of you and your good spirits.  Kathy, you need to encourage us when we are down - and every other person here has to keep doing their thing.  I plan to keep doing mine. 

Best and much love,

Sharmin  :grouphug
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 05, 2008, 07:40:30 PM
I'm in Singapore and it's very late at night so I don't know if I'll cover everything.

First, I realize that many of the older thals actually attend very little of the scientific programs and I know this because I do. However, I did see many parents at these sessions trying to gain valuable information about various issues that confront them. It simply isn't true that people don't go, but no one would know this without going themselves. Not everyone goes to conferences for the drinking. Some actually do learn.

Kymn, you feel offended because you have worked very hard to put this together, but frankly, none of that can excuse a goverment so blind that they think they can stop the flow of information. Medical information is presented regularly in tv shows and is also all over the internet. I will never defend any government that tries to prevent the free flow of information. But I am also somewhat insulted by your words because I spend countless hours online reading the very topics that you are brushing off here. And if you bothered to read some of the in depth posts I write you would be well aware of this fact. I do not let any subject scare me away and have even readily learned about non-thal blood disorders in order to help the non-thals that come to our group for help. I did intend to sit in on many programs that I am now not allowed to see, and especially the specific program you have dissed.

    *  Gene Therapy - Is It A Reality?
      Dr Michael ANTONIOU, United Kingdom
    * Molecular Therapies in Beta-Thalassaemia
      Prof THEIN Swee Lay,
      United Kingdom
    * Oxidative Stress in Thalassaemia and
      Haemoglobinopathies: Mechanism and Treatment
      Prof Eliezer RACHMILEWITZ, Israel

I have great interest in all of these and I had even asked you previously about the closed lunch dealing with oxidative stresses. Prof Eliezer RACHMILEWITZ is scheduled for both and I have great interest in her research. FYI, combating oxidative stresses is one extremely important thing that every patient can do and learning more ways to do it can only help.

Some other comments. Chewing gum is actually healthy if the gum type is not full of junk. It cleans the teeth and helps digestion. I am not the only vegetarian attending and in fact had dinner with a few people tonight including another vegetarian. Please don't act like it's such a big favor to accommodate us. Vegetarians hear this crap way too much and it is bull. We have just as much right to eat as anyone else and it shouldn't be going out of anyone's way to accommodate it.

As far as boycott, I encouraged two people who were considering canceling to come and they both will be.

And I could go on for days about those who get the worst care and the reason I made India my first conference was to try to emphasize just that. More Indian children die from thal every year than anywhere else on earth. Far more. These people will not be represented at the conference. Yes, there are Indians coming but they can tell you themselves that by far, they are the very lucky ones. I haven't heard of any TIF conference planned for India.

I could also go on for day about the many problems of your government, but also mine. I will never defend the actions of either. You may like the restrictions but I prefer allowing freedom. It may be a dream but in a world where the people are so completely indoctrinated that they can't even see the repression in their own world, I will not give up my beliefs and ideals. Both out governments suck and I will never hesitate to say it and please don't try to defend a country that has the highest per capita execution rate on earth. And I won't defend my own government's warmongering ways.

It is so completely ignorant for your government to have these restrictions when one can turn on ER or Scrubs and be treated to in depth medical knowledge on a regular basis. What is needed is someone who could make this case to them in a persuasive way. Perhaps you should have done like others and asked for my help in providing a persuasive argument while there was time to do so. I do write a good letter and can back up arguments with reason and can even point out inconsistencies in government arguments. By the way, these are SCIENTIFIC programs, not medical. That is why it is called Scientific Programme. Is science also prohibited to the masses?

I'm going to sleep. This whole thing is ridiculous and I will stand by my statements that TIF has no business holding conferences that exclude people from so many topics. Everyone in Singapore can be pissed at me but I really don't give a damn. I have helped way too many people to worry about hurt feelings. I came to try to gather more information to help people and to learn what is on the horizon. I will still do whatever I can regardless of the restrictions.

I just want to quote something Sharmin said.

Quote
Andy's research and advice has changed my life and countless other lives.


That is why I am here in Singapore and I will do my best. It mean a lot to me to help and if I fight it is just because of that fact. I have no reason to be involved other than someone needed to do it. Lisa knew I was needed and it is is why her group was left in my hands. Her family has always backed me and my work and greatly appreciate that I have been willing to carry on Lisa's legacy. I do fight for thals and most of them do appreciate that.

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 05, 2008, 10:03:17 PM
To Andy   

Way to go my friend,I am very proud of you for your courage , intergrity,and   your honesty. :clap :clap :clap :clap :clap

I am not going anywhere I'll be around,
Take care
Kathy



Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 05, 2008, 10:31:28 PM
To Sharmin,

I need to be free to express, myself freely and accordingly  that is being true, open and honest with my friends,

I also believe that without spoken words there would not be any change in our society.

I believe that I must not be frightened of the government and other human-beings.

we are all here, because in some way or another we feel oppressed in a sense that we can't get a reasonable result .as to why ,some of thals sufferes are dying early in life, and some without  medications and proper care.

For me to get answers I have to voice my opinions and ask questions  and at times say words that others might not like,  so be it.

Popularity is not important to me, but a cure and good cares for all thals sufferers, is my utmost concern.
Freedom of speech is important to me,I gave up my extended family ,  my community and my country ,so that I can enjoy the freedom of democracy.I have given up so much .Please don't ever tell me not to type my words that are important to me.

Oppressive people wants nothing but to shut the loudest. how dare they ?Now and then, we need to rock the boat.
nothing stays the same.criticism is a part of change too,without it we won't know how

Kathy





I will continue to talk .talk.and talk.



Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: nice friend on October 05, 2008, 11:13:35 PM
Long Live Andy ,
You are great buddy ..
wat a super rocking entry it is   ..
you are real representitive of Thals  .... Keep it up ... we all are with you .... carry on buddy ..
at least i m with you :thumbsup .... hope you will get alot of info for us .. waiting for you and the story of the conference .. take care andy  .. you are more prescious for us than the conference....
 
best regards
umair
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 06, 2008, 05:47:38 AM
Andy,

Thanks for standing up for us.  What you learn will help thousands.  I hope that I have the strength to do the right thing in the face of adversity.  I hope that I can do my part in helping you in whatever way that I can.  You go through a lot for us - being attacked can break a person - and be very damaging -  yet you endure it all of the time for us.  I don't know where I would be right now - were it not for you.  God bless you in continuing to do your work. 

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 06, 2008, 02:14:07 PM
Andy, i applaud you for your honesty, intergerety, courage and also for u standing by all of us and by what you beleive in.  :hugfriend

I would like to add something more to what you have said.


And I could go on for days about those who get the worst care and the reason I made India my first conference was to try to emphasize just that. More Indian children die from thal every year than anywhere else on earth. Far more. These people will not be represented at the conference. Yes, there are Indians coming but they can tell you themselves that by far, they are the very lucky ones. I haven't heard of any TIF conference planned for India.


Yes, when it was said that this conference was for people in Asia who did not even know what thalassaemia was and why thier children dying, and that they didnt even have access to blood, the first thing i thought was, i wonder how many of those just mentioned would be able to afford such an expensive conference. I would only believe that they (TIF) are holding this for those with less privildges in Asia only when atleast a fair number of them are represented. And like Andy said, India would be a good place to start.


It is so completely ignorant for your government to have these restrictions when one can turn on ER or Scrubs and be treated to in depth medical knowledge on a regular basis. What is needed is someone who could make this case to them in a persuasive way. Perhaps you should have done like others and asked for my help in providing a persuasive argument while there was time to do so. I do write a good letter and can back up arguments with reason and can even point out inconsistencies in government arguments. By the way, these are SCIENTIFIC programs, not medical. That is why it is called Scientific Programme. Is science also prohibited to the masses?


Absolutely true on both accounts.

Sharmin, Thank you for being so patient with all of us through this hightened emotions of frustrations and disappointements.  :hugfriend

and Kathy, am so glad u decided not to leave the site. I always feel comforted by your wisdom and constant encouragement you give to all of us. Keep posting..  :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 06, 2008, 03:53:26 PM
Andy,Manal,Puuja and Mariam,

Bon Voyage and stay safe,i am happy that you are all there for us,and i am sure you'll bring home some valueables :) thanks a lot for sacrifying your time and money,especially Andy,who went solely for us,as he has no one with thal in his immediate family.

Eponine,

Thanks a lot for doing what ever you did to organize this event,i am sorry you have to juggle through your transfusions and everything.

Let's be humble and kind to each other :) i know it's hard for people who spent a lot of money and time to accept this situation,but governments can be idiotic sometimes,as we all know.

As Sajid used to say,We are one big happy family. :grouphug

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 06, 2008, 06:27:35 PM
First I would like to remind everyone that in the course of discussion, baseball bats are not an appropriate response. Argument utilizing reason is.

I truly wish the organizers of this conference had reached out for help when confronted with this decision by the Health Science Authority, as I am certain we would have been able to provide strong arguments as to why this decision is wrong and why this prohibition is totally out of place at a conference that is specifically for patients and families.

I have received this message as an explanation.
Quote
The reason for this strict rules and regulations is to protect the lay people as they are not medically trained to make an informed choice for themselves.

Ugh. This is so completely wrong. It contradicts everything that is well accepted concerning patient rights and embodied at the core of the Patient Bill of Rights, which I have posted under documents. I do not know if any such protection is given to patients in Singapore, but this is something that should be provided to every patient in every country.

Quote
The patient has the right to obtain from his or her physician complete current information about diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis in easily understandable terms. If it is medically inadvisable to give such information to the patients, it will be given to a legally authorized representative.
The patient has the right to receive from his or her physician information necessary to give informed consent prior to the start of any procedure or treatment. Except in emergencies this will include, but not necessarily be limited to, a description of the specific procedure or treatment, any risks involved, and the probable duration of any incapacitation. When there are alternatives to therapeutically designed research protocols, the patient has the right to know about them.

No patient anywhere should accept less and the fact that the Singapore patients have accepted the notion that they have no rights to information is a sad commentary on their own self esteem as patients. They, like all patients have a right to make their own decision about treatment and can only do this when they have full access to information. If the organizers had made this situation public as soon as they learned of this ruling, we may have been able to provide expert testimony from doctors and hospital administrators to support the concept of the Patient Bill of Rights.

This situation has opened a new awareness in me that not all countries have moved forward to this acceptance that patients have full rights to be informed of all aspects of their condition and all treatment options, and that in the end, only the patient can ultimately make any decision about his or her own health care.

I hope we can bring something productive out of this situation and to get things moving in that direction, I will ask patients from around the world to let us know what rights patients in their countries have. This is such an important issue and I hope we can get away from the negative issue here and turn it into something that can help advance the cause of patient rights throughout the world.

I also do wish to thank the conference organizers for their incredible effort to put on this conference, even though severely understaffed. Kymn, Derrick and Helen all deserve much thanks for pulling this off and I so wish that things could have gone easier and I do realize that there will be more disappointment coming for conference attendees who do not yet know of this decision. With that said, I offer any help I can give to the organizers in explaining to patients why they will not be allowed into some of the programs. We need to move on and make the most of this conference for all attendees.


Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 07, 2008, 03:06:04 AM
Hope things are going well at the conference! 

Nice to hear from you Zaini  :hugfriend

Thank you kindly Maako  :hugfriend

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 07, 2008, 06:19:01 AM
Thank-you Maako.
 :hugfriend

We all need a soft place to fall,
I'm glad I belong to this group friends with some fantastic human-beings.
Always
Kathy.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 07, 2008, 07:04:53 AM
Hi Kathy, Sharni, Zaini

A big hi. WE all are here. Andy , Shilpa, Simran have arrived day before yesterday. Imaan(Maako) has also reached I have spoken to her and we are meeting tomm. Mariam(Aysam) has got herself registered as well, I will be meeting her in the evening. Dr Marwaha and Manal are expected to reach in one hours time.

I have spoken to Kymn, she is well just very busy and tired. Has to be she has pulled it off singlehandedly. I had voulnteered  to help her for arrangements when I came  back  toi SGP from India after my son's spleenectomy,  but she had declined, being the kind soul she is.

Guess very soon after the conference we wil be saying All's well that end's well.

Cheers
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 07, 2008, 11:53:26 AM
Hi poo gill,
I am glad you travelled safe and now sharing with us about what is happening there,
It is also nice to hear  that all is well with everyone.
Looking forward to hear from Manal, about her  meetings,and her learning.

Take care

 bighug to everyone
from Kathy
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 07, 2008, 03:46:10 PM
Thank you everyone - you guys are great  :grouphug

I am running to catch my flight - missing my kids before I even leave  :(

Thank you Kathy - your love, wisdom and ability to forgive is admirable.  We have much to learn from you.

Umair, thank you for your caring so much for everyone! 

I will catch up with you guys once I arrive in CA.

Much love and thank you again,

Sharmin  :hugfriend :hugfriend :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 07, 2008, 10:49:49 PM
To Sharmin   
Travel  safe.
Dont worry, your children are in good hands ,you could not fine better care,  for them, than their grand-parents
they will be having a ball.

There was nothing to forgive " I  was in the wrong to say what i did" ,My jokes wasn't funny for some :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl.
Life is too Short to not to get on with one another.
Take care you are a lovely lady with lots of compassion in you.
Much love from
Kathy

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 08, 2008, 02:53:30 AM
Thanks Puja,

For an update,keep updating :) .

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 08, 2008, 04:18:17 PM
Thank you for the update Puja,  we look forward to hearing more from you!

Kathy, you are right I am having more seperation anxiety than my kids are.  They are getting away with so much more with
grandma and grandpa  :wink

Your jokes are always funny to me  :biggrin  Thank god for your jokes - can you imagine the anxiety people would feel after reading all of the serious information surrounding thalassemia without the lightness of jokes  :shocked :sulk :quiver :'( :sadnope :whyme  and not to mention the boredom  :sleepy :tired.   

please, keep making us laugh!!   :laugh

Love,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 09, 2008, 09:54:55 AM
 :tired This is so totally me  :rotfl :rotfl when ever i see a post with scientific terms,i have to force myself to read it,sorry guys,but i know i am dumb  :rotfl :rotfl.

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Kathy11 on October 09, 2008, 12:39:39 PM
Ok Zaini.
We will celebrate  the dumb day. :huh :huh :huh :huh :huh
 At least you have enough intelligent to know you are dumb. :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl.
Umair    not a word :whistle :whistle :whistle :whistle  she said it i'm just re-inforce it  :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl :rotfl

Count me in I like to join the group.

Kathy :hugfriend :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 09, 2008, 01:12:59 PM
Hey ! Girls and Umair & Narendra


A big Hi !

Sorry, could not post yesterday - was dead tired after the long day. However, you will be happy to hear that the conference is going great. 2 days are over, and guess what! yesterday  we attended all the scientific sessions and in the afternoon Derrik informed me that Parents and Patients have been offically allowed to enter. WE just have to fill an extra form like an undertaking that we are going to attend those programs. The reason the restriction was imposed on the first place was,  as medical faculty had some very descriptive presentations and pictures which someitmes they are not comfortable to share infront of parents and patients, given the contents. Neverthless that problem has been overcome, now we are free to attend all scientifc programs and you know what  - some of the stuff is a real eye opener. All the top Doctors of Haemteology are here and we can ask as many questions and clear our doubts. In case you guys want to ask something specific, please send me quickly so that I can ask for you.


Sorry I forgot Kymn (Eponine)was damn write about the whole conference. Her efforts and  hardwork show. It is commendable what she has pulled off. Way to go Kymn!. Also Kymn before i forget please post your scuba dive pictures for the all the thalpals to see.

Overall we are having a ball. We had a party on 7th night,  at my place, which was graced by the presence of all the  thal pals. Manal, Mariamm(Aysam) with her daughter, Maako(Imaan) and her friends , Andy, Shilpa, Simran, me - poogill(Puja), Dr Rk Marwaha. It was really nice to meet everyone IN PERSON, though for the first day I was getting confused with their thal pal name and their real nameS.   Dr Marwaha was very very impressed with our knowledge  and dedication about thalassemia us and was surprised that we have never met each other before. It was not feeling at all that we met for the first time, it was like we just started our conversation from where we left off.  Mike missed it and some of the other thal pals like ronlald, as I was not  aware they are coming.

Now the conference -we had some good topics like oxidative stress. Please Please everyone of you should start immediately taking vitamin E. Dont miss it, it is very important to take a lot of antioxidants.

Another good product was discussed was Fermented Papaya, they say it is a very good antioxidant. It is suppose to show good results in clearing the body of free radicals. Only thing is it is not a cheap product, and we are discussing with them about the pricing. Andy wil be talking more about it as a product.

Also a totally new antioxidant which I found out is turmeric(cucurmin), i think I have spelt wrongly. I know it as a product as it is used a lot in Indian cooking on a daily basis but i dint know it was an antioxidant.

I will get into the individual subjects later I guess, cos too much of information on this and I will need a lot of help on this from our other thal pals.

One more important thing, which  was covered by Sir Dr Weatherhall is that Thalassemia is not even in the GBD2005. For people like me who dont know wht GBD is, it is  Global Burden of Diseases 2005. Thalassemia has to be get into GBD then only we will have the funding from NGO's and people like Bill Gates and OPrah can actually help the research for thal. Funding is the actual  stumbling block as of now for research.  Once we are in GBD atleast people will look at thalassemia as a serious thing and progress on research will be faster.

Having said that awareness is slowly coming.  Patients from  developing nations Pakistan, Nepal, India and other developing countries have come to see what is happening in this area.

I spoke to a Dr from Greece and he told me that in Greece people cannot get married unless they get tested and have proof that  both of them are not the carriers. This is such a good rule, actually if we can get this implemented for other nations it will be so much better. Easier said than done though. For countries  as big  as India I am not even  sure how we can implement this. I am told  however, that in West Bengal (a state in India) it is being implemented.


Lastly the chelation therapy combining desferal and L1 is the best combination. it is giving best results. Chelation Chelation Chelation - please dont miss it.
 
Will keep posting.


Luv

It has been exactly 6 years to the day when I found out tht Prat had thal. I was heartbroken then but not anymore. I pray today that we wil be celbrating a cure very soon.


Thank  you to all  the lovely thal pals, for being there for me.



Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 09, 2008, 02:41:46 PM
Puja,

Thank you so much for your post!  There is so much information and it is very exciting to know that there is a lot of potential to make things better!  Together we can do it! 

Thanks again,

Love,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 09, 2008, 05:09:32 PM
OMG!! Puja, you are doing a wonderful job ,congrats  :hugfriend

Keep telling and posting,again i wish i was there :(

Quote
Sorry I forgot Kymn (Eponine)was damn write about the whole conference. Her efforts and  hardwork show. It is commendable what she has pulled off. Way to go Kymn!. Also Kymn before i forget please post your scuba dive pictures for the all the thalpals to see.

A big hand for Kymn  :clapcheergirl :clapcheergirl :clapcheergirl :clapcheergirl :clapcheergirl

Quote
Overall we are having a ball. We had a party on 7th night,  at my place, which was graced by the presence of all the  thal pals. Manal, Mariamm(Aysam) with her daughter, Maako(Imaan) and her friends , Andy, Shilpa, Simran, me - poogill(Puja), Dr Rk Marwaha. It was really nice to meet everyone IN PERSON, though for the first day I was getting confused with their thal pal name and their real nameS.   Dr Marwaha was very very impressed with our knowledge  and dedication about thalassemia us and was surprised that we have never met each other before. It was not feeling at all that we met for the first time, it was like we just started our conversation from where we left off.  Mike missed it and some of the other thal pals like ronlald, as I was not  aware they are coming.

I am sooooooooo jealous!!!   :sigh :sigh :sigh

Quote
Also a totally new antioxidant which I found out is turmeric(cucurmin), i think I have spelt wrongly. I know it as a product as it is used a lot in Indian cooking on a daily basis but i dint know it was an antioxidant.

I think you are talking about "Huldi" ? right? Turmeric is called "Huldi " in urdu.

Quote
One more important thing, which  was covered by Sir Dr Weatherhall is that Thalassemia is not even in the GBD2005. For people like me who dont know wht GBD is, it is  Global Burden of Diseases 2005. Thalassemia has to be get into GBD then only we will have the funding from NGO's and people like Bill Gates and OPrah can actually help the research for thal. Funding is the actual  stumbling block as of now for research.  Once we are in GBD atleast people will look at thalassemia as a serious thing and progress on research will be faster.

Hello TIF ???  :boredom :boredom And a big hello to us all,what are we doing to bring people's attention towards thal. ???

Hey Puja, did you meet some one from Pakistan? any doctor? any patient?

Quote
It has been exactly 6 years to the day when I found out tht Prat had thal. I was heartbroken then but not anymore. I pray today that we wil be celbrating a cure very soon.

INSHALLAH ,hopefully  :yes

 :flowers

Zaini.






Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 09, 2008, 05:48:20 PM
Hey Zaini,

Yes, my grandma also talks endlessly about the benefits of 'huldi' - I guess it is a cure all.  Whether you eat it or
or wear it!!  When she fractured her back last year - she pasted it all over her back!!  :rotfl :rotfl
But it actually worked  ??? ??? Her pain subsided and the  ??? fracture healed much faster than expected go figure.. :dunno

It's time to pump our babies full of antioxidants!!

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: nice friend on October 09, 2008, 07:39:01 PM
hey ,
i m realy wondered that my Doctor is still here in Pakistan , not went to attend conference  :dunno
i dont know why  :dunno but usuly she attend's every conference National or international .....
but this time she isn't attending ....
Same question to you Puja ...
Quote
Hey Puja, did you meet some one from Pakistan? any doctor? any patient?

Take Care
Umair
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 11, 2008, 11:52:03 PM
Wishing all of our friends a safe journey home  :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 12, 2008, 02:20:00 AM
Hi Guys

Here i am again, but in a rush, as people are going back home and i am in a process of  dropping them to the airport. Manal left last night. Andy is at  the airport.  I am not going to write a long post, cos rushed for time. Maako is leaving today and Mariam wil be flying tonight.

Yes Zaini - It is Haldi(tumuric). Lets discuss all antioxidants one by one. I ll make a seperate post once we are all back on line. Cos there is so much information but I need all the inouts from everone cos I wud surely miss out on the importnat stuff.

I met a few people from Pakistan, however this person impressed me the most, he   is a gentleman from Hamza foundation Peshawar, who is taking care of 450 children totally on his own hospital expense, blood desferal, food, stay and everything. He is not a Doctor but has founded this hospital and is pulling it off on pvt funding.  Way to go. i hope and pray we have more of these good samaritans. Will post his address and other details later.

I want to talk about a lot of stuff like hydrooxyurea, Recormon etc. Please keep asking questions. Cos there was so much of information bombardment, we might miss out stuff.


Zaini I want to talk to you about PGD.
Has anyone seen Harminder - Priya from mexico lately?????????

Will speak to oyu guys later.

Cu soon.

Luv
me



Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 12, 2008, 06:14:36 AM
Puja,

Thank you so much for providing all of us with this valuable information and updates on the conference :)

Wishing you and your family all the best !

Love,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 12, 2008, 05:29:53 PM
Sure Puja,

I am here to talk :) Harminder is on my msn list,but unfortunately i don't much log on to messenger due to lack of time,once i saw her online,but didn't have time to log on,i'll email her first thing  tomorrow.

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 13, 2008, 01:01:45 PM
Zaini and Umair, i did meet some very nice parents and thals from Pakistan. Some of them i had talked for sometime was Amjad, 27 year old thal major from karachi and his wife, Hira... They were married just abt four days before the conference, and they looked very cute together. I also met a Mr. Chela from K.K. commodities in Karachi, and also his very nice family. His son, Jatindar said he will be checking out this site again..(he was a member before and apparently there was some problem with his login)

Which reminds me, i was telling them about you guys, Umair and Zaini, and they dint seem to know you... I asked them about sajid too...I know Pakistan is a huge place... and like they said, maybe u guys werent from the same place..:) Which part of Pakistan are u guys from?
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 13, 2008, 04:01:39 PM
Wow!

Thank you guys for all of the amazing information that you are bringing back for us! 

Did anyone meet any Canadians there? 

 :hugfriend :hugfriend :hugfriend :hugfriend

We missed you guys!

Love,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 13, 2008, 04:40:54 PM
Hi Imaan,

I am from Karachi and Umair is from Faisalabad,i'd love to meet Amjad from Karachi,i don't know if he goes to the same hospital where my daughter goes,i'll ask her doctor if there is any patient name Amjad there.

It's great to see that Pakistani thals are finding partners and getting married,which means that at least a little awareness is taking place in people's mind.

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: nice friend on October 13, 2008, 11:39:09 PM
Hi Maako ,
Zaini is right , i m from Faisalabad  , and about the Pakiistan yeah it's a little bit huge country , you may gues to hear that Karakaram series of the mountians and the World's Second Highest mountain is also a resident of Pakisan hahahaha.... i m a new member soo i dont think that everyone know me ... but its strange if they are the old members of the site and dont know about Sajid ....  :-\  ... How was your journey and wat you learned in the conference please share that all i m eagerly waiting for all wat that happen in S'Pore ...

Best Regards
Take Care
Peace
Umair
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 14, 2008, 12:38:19 AM
Sharmin, i did meet a canadian... her name is Helen, i do have her email address if you are interested.. she was over 30s, married and had a child too (if i remember correctly.. so many people to remember).. hehehe

Umair, the guy i talked about said he became a member and he dint log in much coz he had some problems with his user name...i dont think he knew anyone... coz after his first few tries he gave up.. i asked him to join us again...
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 14, 2008, 12:44:30 AM
Maako,

Thank you so much.  I am glad that us Canadians were represented there:)  I am also happy to hear that Helen is doing well and that she has a family.  You can PM me with her email, and I can give you mine to pass on to her as well. 

I'm so glad that you had a good trip!  I so wish I had a chance to meet you too:) 

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 14, 2008, 01:22:44 AM
Hello everyone

Finally i am back home and finally i can be online. I missed you all soooooo much. I didn't hve my laptop with me so couldn't log. Being one week away was so hard for me, this site is an addiction and i will never be that away all this long time . I really love you all so much

Nothing can express how happy i was seeing my friends for the first time. Deep inside me i was so much worried and didn't know how will i talk or what to say but it went so smoothly and we were just continuing our talks that were started online.

As i said i am back yesterday at 6 pm and i slept from 8pm till today 8 pm  so i selpt the whole past 24 hours as i was terribly exhausted and i am severly suffering from swollen legs from long stay in flights. I will need some time to start posting my notes as i need to put things in order to summarise points. The bad thing that they did not release the lectures on CD as it helped us remember and summarize points but i just took notes of important things.

So until i report lots of hugs and kisses to each one of you. One last thing to tell you is that it was a pleasure and one of the most wonderful things meeting Andy, this person is sooo good to be true, he is doing a lot of hard work for us you can not  imagine how sincere he is. At many lectures i wanted to tell doctors, come on we know this .. Andy had told us. We are in good hands, trust me.  Also i would like to thank Puja for her warm hospitality she did a lot to us and she and her husband were there for us all the time. I got to know Shilpa for the first time and she is very informative making an excellent observation and was a pleasure to know her with her warm character ( by the way you should watch her talks with Andy, there talks are always funny) . Simran and Makko (Iman), it was a pleasure knowing and meeting you, thal didnot prevent you from reaching your goals. Simran wish you a great achievemnt in your MBA and Makko wish you the best in your finals. Mariam too i was glad that i got to know her and i am sure that after the conference she will be abel to mange aysam in the perfect way cause now she knows everything. Nur too is so cute and i was really happy to see her and get to know her and see how cute her daughter is from her picture. Also Roldhan from Philipness, he was with his group and was a pleasure seeing him. Aston Dialo, though i haven't got enough time talking with him but i was happing seeing him with his cheerful smile. Finally i got to see Miaki and exchange some talk with her, how sweet she was with her lively character that makes one feel that he knows her long ago she is soooo friendly but unfortunatly i couldn't see her on the last day. I would like too to thank Dr, Marwaha he is really a very helpful doctors and he was answering all of our questions with lot of patience and full information. Hope i didn't forgetto mention anyone. But i was honoured to meet them all

So again i really missed you all and until my next post lot of hugs and kisses to all of you.

manal

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 14, 2008, 01:53:26 AM
Manal,

It is sooo good to have you back!  I look forward to reading your posts about what you have learned. 


Sharmin  :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 14, 2008, 10:38:27 AM
Welcome back Manal  :hugfriend

We missed you too,waiting for your informative posts.

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: jade on October 14, 2008, 11:34:18 AM
wow that conference sounds awesome.  I can see that u enjoyed it.  Welcome back.
Jade
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 14, 2008, 02:41:24 PM
hi all i am back also i  have meet so many wonderful peolpe from this site i have taken back so much and there is much more wich im waitting for manal to help inform us as she kept notes and tryed her best to remmember everything  ???


so i am happy to say and honer that u were there u were my ears eyes and brains all u guys were  :huh
i didnt really understand as i am new at this so thnx to all who kept me infomed and took there time to explaine
i mostly wantted to thank puju she really made us feel  :hugfriend
that we were home she really is one sweet and careing lady
i am glad i got to meet you puju  :grin

ANDY  no words can explaine how much you do for me and eveyone u are a wonderfull man honestly from my heart i say this i wish u the best in your life as u wish for others  :bighug
may all ur wishes come true as u deserve every wish u ask for

and all the rest im glad i went to singapore to meet all such nice and outstanding and strong ppl
thanku from aysam and i mwah to all
 :biggrin

ps.
 andy i need ur adress swety so i can send u the book that manal gave to me and also the edc we spoke about
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 14, 2008, 02:46:46 PM
Aysam,

I am so glad that you were able to get good information at the conference, and that you had all of our wonderful members helping you while you were there. 

Please keep us posted on how your little one is doing, and if we can help you with anything,

Best
Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 15, 2008, 09:29:24 AM
Just posted some photos in the gallery, hope you like them

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 15, 2008, 10:19:15 AM
Manal,

I simply loved the pictures,i am sooooo jealous i can't even begin to tell you  :rotfl :rotfl i wish i'd be able to meet you all one day.

Hey you look Goooooooorgeous  :biggrin

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 15, 2008, 02:52:28 PM
Manal,

thank you for sharing the pictures they were beautiful, you guys all look amazing.  I hope to meet all of you as well someday. 

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 15, 2008, 02:54:12 PM
Manal,


Hey you look Goooooooorgeous  :biggrin


Thats so true zaini, I told her that the first time i met her... she is really beautiful... hehehe
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 15, 2008, 03:49:35 PM
You too are really cute Imaan  :hugfriend .

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 15, 2008, 09:48:11 PM
You too are really cute Imaan  :hugfriend .

Zaini.

Imaan, you are adorable:)  So nice to see pictures of all of you lovely people!
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 15, 2008, 09:54:26 PM
What you may not see is how long Imaan's eyelashes are. She's a doll.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 15, 2008, 11:04:33 PM
Thank you Zaini, Sahrmin, Maako for your sweet compliments. It is my dream Zaini and Sharmin to see you too, it will be great and you know what you might know about Maako too is that she has a very kind soul, you just feel so comfortable in her presence. Though we didn't talk much because of the short days but you just get the feeling that you know her long time ago.Wish you Imaan all the best in your life and wish that life gives you alllllll what you wish for cause you deserve the best :hugfriend

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 16, 2008, 12:15:47 AM
U guys are making me blush :wub.. thank you Sharmin, Zaini, Manal and Andy (i never knew u noticed my eyelashes which is not so long as u're exaggaration!!  :rotfl)   :blush

and thank you manal, for the lovely wishes:D I loved meeting you and i wish you and ure family all the best too :hugfriend

and hope one day soooooooooon that i meet u sharmin and zaini  :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 16, 2008, 02:23:37 AM
Hey Imaan,

What is the secret of long lashes ? Castor oil ?  :wink

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 16, 2008, 02:52:47 AM
Hehe. I can answer that. The secret is being born a Maldivian.  :happyyes 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Maako on October 16, 2008, 03:32:13 AM
 :rotfl zaini, good one..hehehe

oh come on Andy, i see many others with long eyelashes who are not Maldivian ... :P:P

but, maybe ure right, we have long eyelashes, a number of us i guess.. if u think mine is long, u shud see my best friend's eyelashes.. hehe.. hers is extremely long thick and black  :biggrin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 16, 2008, 03:35:25 AM
Imaan,

Wow, your lashes are beautiful - is there a website for the castor oil, I could use some!!   :rotfl

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 16, 2008, 08:52:30 AM
Castor oil is best for lashes,  :biggrin i've used it and seen the difference,i am just being lazy now a days to take care of myself  :boredom

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 17, 2008, 07:32:36 AM
Hi Guys

Castor oil does work atleast tht is what I have heard in home remedies. Maako u hv cute lashes.

Btw, I was trying to upload some pics and I was not able to, cos it is my first time. Any advice please , it gets stuck at add a picture, I add it and then it doesnt change or say pic saved. Dunno wht is wrong, is there a limit to a pic size.

Let me know so I can show u some cute pics.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 17, 2008, 07:40:57 AM
Hi Puja,

Yes, there is a size limit. The best thing to do is install a free program called Pixresizer and use it to re-size the pics. It's easy to use and makes it easier to upload pics or send them in emails. See Danielle's post at http://www.thalassemiapatientsandfriends.com/index.php?topic=689.msg5312#msg5312
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Parin on October 18, 2008, 01:21:35 PM
Dear Andy,

It was a great conference in Singapore and got some updates as well....

I want all the inforamtion which was talked at the conference so do u know any site where all these will upload....

Is there any talked about the cure? Gene Therapy?

Regards
Ashutosh on behalf of My Son PARIN
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 18, 2008, 02:19:36 PM
HAY EVERYONE MISS U GUYS
i told dr today in reagrds to many things like whaet grass wich i stared aysam on osata and cuncom and fish oil
they went mad at me they said no no no u cannout just give him hearbal stuff i am now so confussed plz somene help me
why they said this they said he has thal majour u just dont give him herbal stuff and he is on exjade
pls somene i need to know am i doing the wrong thing i am now so worried am i killing him myslef thsi si how they made me feel
plz tell me  ???
cuncom
what is it for why we use it how much and how to give him ? :wah
osata
what is it for why we use it  how much and how to give him ? :dunno


fish oil

what is it for why we use it how much and how to give him ?


wheat grass



what is for why we use it how much and how to give him?
also vitamine c d and b i ask for a script becuse i heard at the confrnce it will help they yelled at me why ?
i dont knwo they wont allow me to get it

i cant understand why they are doing this to me i am takeing aysam to lebaonon in feb 09  until now plz tell me what am i doing wrong what should i be doing plz so when the dr ask me why i am giveing him all this i have a reply to there answer into why and hwo much and what it dose side affects and everything you know what i meen ? plz anyone
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 18, 2008, 06:34:08 PM
Dear Mariam,

I am sorry i don't know about concum or osata,but you are doing nothing wrong giving him wheat grass,keep giving him wheat grass,it is known to increase energy levels,my daughter is also taking it.

For vitamins ,buy any multivitamin for kids which does not contain any iron and not a very big amount of Vitamin C.He is so small so i don't think he'd be able to swallow tabs,IP6 is the best antioxidant and a natural chelator.May i ask how frequent are his transfusions.

He is so cute and cuddly that i just wanna hug him  :bighug give him a big kiss from me.  :kissy And don't worry we are here to help you and support you.

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 18, 2008, 07:06:42 PM
Mariam,

Your doctors are unbelievably clueless. You were at the medical talks and I also introduced you to two of the top thal doctors in the world, and you heard them talk about the importance of supplements. Folic acid, vitamins D & E, B Complex and L-carnitine were all stressed by these doctors. I do not understand how your doctor could have missed all this. All the things you mention are natural products and don't need a doctor's approval to use. Fish oil is made from fish. Wheatgrass is simply a sprouted grain of wheat. FPP is made from papaya and is a pure organically grown product that has shown an incredible ability to enhance the levels of vitamins and minerals in the body and is being studied for its affect in many conditions. These are all natural products and not medicines. They are safe to take and should not require a doctor's approval. Sometimes it's best to just stay quiet and use the things that can help your child. Some doctors think they know everything but when they claim to have more knowledge than the top specialists in the world, it is simply arrogance and will not help your child. If you are able to take your son to see Dr Taher in Lebanon, you will find much more acceptance of the role that supplements can play. For the time being, everything you mentioned is safe and in fact, none of it is even classified as herbal.

Don't let the doctors confuse you. Many doctors resent patient involvement in their own care or care of their children and their arrogance can sometimes be detrimental to patients. At Singapore, we were able to meet doctors with great compassion, who will not allow their egos to rule. If only all doctors could be as caring as these very special people.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 02:55:45 AM
hi Mariam

Supplements and herbal stuff can be given with transfusions and chelation.

Zaini -  It is Cucurmin(which mariam has referred as cuncom I guess) - it is turmuric(haldi). Antioxidant .


Osata is fermented papaya preparation, www.ori-japan.com or you can mail stephane@fpp-asiapacific.com

Doctors talked very highly of this product.

It is absloutely beneficial for him to be on the supplements as well as his regular treatement.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 08:37:43 AM
 :hugfriend thnx guys you are all the best help eva i love you all and im sure my two year old would write t\he same if he was old enough lol  :biggrin
ANDY BAD NEWS the packAGE I SENT WAS SENT BACK TO ME  :wah
i am so sorry the customs have opend it and said i am not allowed to semd prescribed tablets or any medication i was in bit of trouble but i never new
i am going to see what other way i can get them to you lol they took $60 and said no return money  :mad
at least we know now oh andy i sent you a aemail plz  if you can read it and reply to me if u havent recived it let me know oh yes i am not listening to dr here anymore you wanna know i am listening to you guys i trust u guys more  :grin :grin :bighug :bighug :bighug
to all and yes i gavemy son kisses and hugsy from all u guys
 :heartpink :heartred :grouphug :grouphug :grouphug
Title: S A D N E W S RESULTS AYSAM MAZEH LIVER FUNCTION SOMENE HELP ME
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 08:48:40 AM
DATE 14/08/08     
                                                               DATES 13/10/08                               LIVER FUNTION TEST
 
bilirum total    4                                          5
 
bilurum (conjugated)    2                                     2
 
aspartate        56  H                                         80 H
 
                                       
 
alanine txaminase   [bgcolor=#eb0000]58 [/bgcolor] H                                            134
 
gamma-gluttxferase  [bgcolor=#c40000]14                                                 [/bgcolor] 16
 
 
alkline phosphatase   [bgcolor=#ff0000]155                                   



          [/bgcolor] 165[/left]
[bgcolor=#0000ff]YOU CAN SEE DATES ANDY IN TWO  MONTHS BIG DIFFRENCE
I HAVE WROTEN DATES AND THE OTHER SET OF NUBERS ARE IN LINE WITHE Test
 DATE SHOWN ON TOP AND THEY TELL ME NPO BIG DIFFRENCE MMM? ALANINE TXAMINASE BIG DIFFRENCE BIG  andy me dear you are my life line as this
time as they are being not honest or i am just to panicy
they tell me they are a little high mmmmmmmmmmmmm i dont see this

 [/bgcolor]  :banghead
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 08:50:00 AM
DATE 14/08/08     COMPARE THESE DATES
                                                     DATES 13/10/08                               LIVER FUNTION TEST
 
bilirum total    4                                  5
 
bilurum (conjugated)    2                       2
 
aspartate       56 H                             80 H
 
                                       
 
alanine txaminase   58 H                             134
 
gamma-gluttxferase  14                           16
 
 
alkline phosphatase   155                        165
 

 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 21, 2008, 09:37:16 AM
Hi Mariam (aysam)

I am sorry dear for the results, actually i have no idea what they are about and i am sure Andy will help. But i just want to know why is the bilirubin that high when aysam transfuses every 3 weeks????

Did you increase the dose of exjade to go with his weight as Dr. El Beshalawy had told you i the conference??

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 10:13:16 AM
MANAL whats biliram ? meen
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 10:23:00 AM
Hi Mariam

Bilirubin is generally high in thal kids.  But we need to double check the range. What did the doctors say?

Please dont colour it blue.. I am unable to read it then.

Luv

Puja
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 10:31:54 AM
puja
im sorry i havent been able to talk on msms evertime i say hello they cut me off i  dont understand why
its the the biruim im worried about 
its the liver
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 21, 2008, 10:36:49 AM
Hi Mariam

When hemolysis occurs (the breaking of the red blood cells ), there is a waste that comes out of this process called bilirubin. Bilirubin is the reason that non transfused thal  have jaundice (their skin, the white of the eyes, all body fluids like urine becomes yellow in colour). Excess of bilirubin may cause stones to build in the gall bladder.

From my knowledge, transfused thal and especially who have frequent transfusions don't have a high rate of bilirubin since they are maintaing a high HB?

Please Andy advice
manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 10:42:15 AM
 ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 10:57:04 AM
dont worry dearie, prat's bilirubin are always high. it is to do with haemolysis(breaking of cells) in their body. Vishal's bilirubin is also normally on the high side - this is how we know even when we are minors haemolysis is happening to them.

I need to check with someone on Aysam's Bilirubin results. let me study this  for a while. meanwhile you see the pics which manal helped me to upload and njoyyyyyyyyy.

Guys  - finally the pictures are up for viewing, sorry for the delay.

Luv

puja

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 21, 2008, 11:13:46 AM
Mariam, i really don't intend to scare you and as Puja said intermedias has high bilirubin as my son his total bilirubin is ( 1.8 to 2 ) , so from this came my question. Having aysam transfusing, should result in less bilirubin compared to non transfusing. That is why i am wondering and i think you have to check with the doctors.

By the way Mariam, does Aysam suffer from any other thing or there is another genetic disorder that runs in the family???

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 11:24:41 AM
mariam

I checked prat's reports when he was 2.5 years but it only shows that Aysam's alkaline phospates are much lower than Prat. Prat was 333.


normally total bilirubin consists of conjugated and un conjugated. So accroding to the rport which you have enclosed looks like that uncojugated has gone from 2 to 3 that is y total is 5.


I read this on the medical dictionary:

bilirubin
an orange bile pigment produced by the breakdown of heme and reduction of biliverdin; it normally circulates in plasma and is taken up by liver cells and conjugated to form bilirubin diglucuronide, the water-soluble pigment excreted in the bile. Failure of the liver cells to excrete bile, or obstruction of the bile ducts, can cause an increased amount of bilirubin in the body fluids and thus lead to obstructive or regurgitation jaundice.
Another type of jaundice results from excessive destruction of erythrocytes (hemolytic or retention jaundice). The more rapid the destruction of red blood cells and the degradation of hemoglobin, the greater the amount of bilirubin in the body fluids.
Most bilirubin is excreted in the feces. A small amount is excreted in the urine as urobilinogen.
___________________________________________________________________________________

conjugated bilirubin
bilirubin that has been conjugated, mainly to glucuronic acid, in the liver and gives a direct result to the van den bergh test. High blood levels indicate obstructive or hepatocellular origin of the jaundice.



Bilirubin
A pigment produced by the liver that is excreted in bile which causes a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes when it accumulates in those organs. Bilirubin levels can be measured by blood tests, and are most often elevated in patients with liver disease or a blockage to bile flow.

unconjugated bilirubin
bilirubin that has not been conjugated in the liver. It gives an indirect reaction to the van den bergh test. A high level of it in the blood is indicative of hemolysis or a lack of bilirubin clearance by the liver. Called also free bilirubin.
 
___________________________________________________________________________________________
I dont understand  these values at all as I dont have any reference.
                                      
 
alanine txaminase   58 H                             134
 
gamma-gluttxferase  14                           16
 
 

What did the doctor tell you for this report. Is he looking jaundiced????????????  manal do u understand the above 2 terms.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 11:51:26 AM
Manal

Prat's biliunbin  was 2.5 but not 5.  5 is double. I think it is very high. I just called Mariam she spoke to the Doctor and Doctore said that I am going away fro 2 weeks when i am back we will do a liver biopsy.
I dunno waht is wrong with her doctors.

Anyways


I am not able to get any references on this:
alanine txaminase   58 H                             134
 
gamma-gluttxferase  14                           16
 
Do u hv any idea?
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:14:32 PM
bilirubin total                                      5                                                         lymphocyte count                  9.2
 
 
 
 
                                                                                                                   c3d T cells                               15.5
 
 
 
bilirubin  (conjugated)                          2
                                                                                                                    CD4  T HEPER SUBSETS            3.22
 
 
                                                                                                                                 
                                                                                                                       PLASMA PROTHROMBIN TIME    15.3
 
           
                                                                                                                APTT          38.6
 
 
 
                                                                                                                  ANTI TTG ANTIBODY                  5*
 
 
aspartate txaminase                          80
 
 
                                                                                                                      VITAMIN C     57
 
                                                                                                   
 
 
alanine txaminase                             134
 
 
gamma-glutxferase                            16
 
 
alkaline phosphastase                      165
 
 
calcium                                              2.48
 
 
magnesium                                           076
 
 
phosphorus                                            181
 
 
glucose                                                      5.1*
 
 
albumin                                           49
 
 
globulin                                              29
 
 
a/g ratio                                              1.69
 
 
 
[/pre]
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:20:56 PM
hay guys manal and puju i dont know all i know is they dont give a **** 
they tell me nothing and want me to knwo nothing even they have told me never to take aysam to any i read about his some results they all meen high high high eveything is high i am so worried his liver is it to late have they already done damage i dont know  yes he is yellow but more pale to me aoud his eyes black circules and yellow just around his eyes the side they have put up the exjade to 250 ml daily now but i asked if he can come in hostpital and get it down fasster they said that it wont come down faster than it should ? this si not what i was told at the confrence i have a feeling if i do nothing i will lose my son but they just wont listen to me i am going as i told u all in feb to lebaonon only lebaonon now i called told me they cost over $20.0000 a year and no exjade mmm so its a lose lose for me he has to go back to desfral cuz they dosnt give xjade
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:26:29 PM
llymphocyte count                  9.2

phosphorus                                            181


glucose                       5.1*


albumin                                           49


globulin                                              29


a/g ratio                                              1.69




Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:28:07 PM
THE RESUTS ARE SHOWING ME ALL H NEXT TO THEM WICH MEENS HIGH AND I HAVE COMPARED ALL THESES FROM OTHER MONTHS ALL IS GOING UP ECH RESULT NOTHING EVER SAYING NORMAL PLEASE SOMENE HELPME EXPLAINE WHAT IS ALL THIS
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:31:11 PM

EVERYTHING I HAVE WROTE IS ALL SAYING HIGH NEXT TO THE RESULTS SO ALL NOT GOOD HOW HIGH I DONT KNWO WHAT IS THE DAMAGE I ALSO DONT KNWO SOMENE PLZ PUJA MANAL  :wah

bilirubin total                                      5                                                         



c3d T cells                               15.5



bilirubin  (conjugated)                          2


CD4  T HEPER SUBSETS            3.22



PLASMA PROTHROMBIN TIME    15.3


APTT          38.6



ANTI TTG ANTIBODY                  5*


aspartate txaminase                          80


VITAMIN C     57




alanine txaminase                             134


gamma-glutxferase                            16


alkaline phosphastase                      165


calcium                                              2.48


magnesium                                           076

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:36:01 PM
even if ilook search online i still dont understand what the other things meen ? i know they all are doing some kind of damage like thsi web site www.liverdooctor.com and many others in one i read the cells in the liver are being attacked when crtin results are high and the liver stops working  and all my two yaer old results are very hgh most of theses results i was told by a nurse should range from 10 to 50 some are way to high his iron now is 3100
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:38:28 PM
A Typical Liver Function Test
 
Result Unit Reference 
• AP (Alk Phos) U/L (30 to 120)
• GGT (Gamma GT) U/L (5 to 35)
• LD Lactate Dehydrogenase U/L (100-225)
• AST (Aspartate aminotransferase) U/L (5 to 45)
• ALT (Alanine aminotransferase) U/L (5 to 45)
• Albumin g/L (38-55)
• Clotting Studies (Prothrombin Time) Seconds (11 to 13.5)
• Total Bilirubin - Normal range is 3 - 18 umol/L (0.174 - 1.04mg/dL).

 
After the result is the laboratory reference range and the units in which the result is expressed eg: U.L
Each laboratory will provide a "reference range" or ‘ normal values' This is the average reading that is deemed a ‘normal' reading for the majority of the population. This will assist the doctor in determining if the patient's results are abnormal.
             
The normal values for liver function tests will vary between men and women, at different times of the day and will change as you get older. Different laboratories may have slightly differing reference ranges.
Liver Enzymes
ALT - (alanine aminotransferase) - was previously called SGPT is more specific for liver damage. The ALT is an enzyme that is produced in the liver cells (hepatocytes) therefore it is more specific for liver disease than some of the other enzymes . It is generally increased in situations where there is damage to the liver cell membranes. All types of liver inflammation can cause raised ALT. Liver inflammation can be caused by fatty infiltration (see fatty liver) some drugs/medications, alcohol, liver and bile duct disease.

AST - (aspartate aminotransferase) which was previously called SGOT.  This is a mitochondrial enzyme that is also present in heart, muscle, kidney and brain therefore it is less specific for liver disease. In many cases of liver inflammation, the ALT and AST activities are elevated roughly in a 1:1 ratio.
AP - (alkaline phosphatase) is elevated in many types of liver disease but also in non-liver related diseases. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme, or more precisely a family of related enzymes, that is produced in the bile ducts and sinusoidal membranes of the liver but is also present in many other tissues. An elevation in the level of serum alkaline phosphatase is raised in bile duct blockage from any cause. Therefore raised AP in isolation will generally lead a physician to further investigate this area. Conditions such as Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and Sclerosing Cholangitis will generally show a raised AP. Raised levels may also occur in cirrhosis and liver cancer. Alkaline phosphatase is also produced in bone and blood activity can also be increased in some bone disorders.
GGT - (gamma glutamyl transpeptidase) is often elevated in those who use alcohol or other liver toxic substances to excess. An enzyme produced in many tissues as well as the liver. Like alkaline phosphatase, it may be elevated in the serum of patients with bile duct diseases. Elevations in serum GGT, especially along with elevations in alkaline phosphatase, suggest bile duct disease. Measurement of GGT is an extremely sensitive test, however, and it may be elevated in virtually any liver disease and even sometimes in normal individuals. GGT is also induced by many drugs, including alcohol, therefore often when the AP is normal a raised GGT can often (but not always) indicate alcohol use. Raised GGT can often be seen in cases of fatty liver and also where the patient consumes large amounts of aspartame (artificial sweetener) in diet drinks for example.
Bilirubin is the major breakdown product that results from the destruction of old red blood cells (as well as some other sources). It is removed from the blood by the liver, chemically modified by a process call conjugation, secreted into the bile, passed into the intestine and to some extent reabsorbed from the intestine. It is basically the pigment that gives faeces its brown colour.

Bilirubin concentrations are elevated in the blood either by increased production, decreased uptake by the liver, decreased conjugation, decreased secretion from the liver or blockage of the bile ducts.
 
In cases of increased production, decreased liver uptake or decreased conjugation, the unconjugated or so-called indirect bilirubin will be primarily elevated.
In cases of decreased secretion from the liver or bile duct obstruction, the conjugated or so-called direct bilirubin will be primarily elevated.
             
Many different liver diseases, as well as conditions other than liver diseases (e. g. increased production by enhanced red blood cell destruction), can cause the serum bilirubin concentration to be elevated. Most adult acquired liver diseases cause impairment in bilirubin secretion from liver cells that cause the direct bilirubin to be elevated in the blood. In chronic, acquired liver diseases, the serum bilirubin concentration is usually normal until a significant amount of liver damage has occurred and cirrhosis is present. In acute liver disease, the bilirubin is usually increased relative to the severity of the acute process. In bile duct obstruction, or diseases of the bile ducts such as primary biliary cirrhosis or sclerosing cholangitis, the alkaline phosphatase and GGT activities are often elevated along with the direct bilirubin concentration. (See Gilbert's Syndrome)
Albumin - Albumin is the major protein that circulates in the bloodstream. As it is made by the liver and secreted into the blood it is a sensitive marker and a valuable guide to the severity of liver disease.
Low serum albumin concentrations indicate the liver is not synthesizing the protein and is therefore not functioning properly. The serum albumin concentration is usually normal in chronic liver diseases until cirrhosis and significant liver damage is present. There are many other proteins synthesized by the liver however the albumin is easily, reliably and inexpensively measured.
Platelet count - Platelets are cells that form the primary mechanism in blood clots. They're also the smallest of blood cells. They are derived from the bone marrow from the larger cells known as megakaryocytes. Individuals with liver disease develop a large spleen. As this process occurs, platelets are trapped within the sinusoids (small pathways within the spleen) of the spleen. While the trapping of platelets is a normal function for the spleen, in liver disease it becomes exaggerated because of the enlarged spleen (splenomegaly). Subsequently, the platelet count may become diminished.

Prothrombin time (Clotting Studies) The prothrombin time is tested to evaluate disorders of blood clotting, usually bleeding. It is a broad screening test for many types of bleeding disorders. When the liver is damaged it may fail to produce blood clotting factors.
How do the liver cell membranes get damaged in the first place?
Inflammation is a common cause of damage to the delicate liver cell membranes.  Liver inflammation is medically termed hepatitis (hepato = liver, itis = inflammation).
This has many different causes including long term alcohol excess, some medications such as long term antibiotics, cholesterol lowering medications and pain killers, oral synthetic hormone replacement, viral infections of the liver such as hepatitis A, B & C, auto-immune hepatitis, hemachromatosis, primary biliary cirrhosis, exposure to toxic chemicals such as insecticides & pesticides & organic solvents & incorrect diet.
Fatty liver can cause raised Liver Function Test results
One of the most common causes of liver inflammation is fatty liver (see section on Fatty Liver).  Fatty liver is also known as NASH, which stands for Non- Alcoholic Steatorrhoeic Hepatosis. It is very common in overweight persons, over the age of 30 who have had a long term poor diet high in processed foods, sugar, saturated fat and dairy products.
             
Generally an ultrasound of the abdominal area should also be performed. Many cases of fatty liver can be picked up this way. The ultrasound will detect areas ‘of increased echogenicity' meaning that the liver tissue is beginning to become infused with fat.
What can be done to lower the readings?
In my medical practice where I do a lot of routine blood tests for hormone levels and liver function in overweight patients, I often find slight elevations in liver enzymes which signifies mild impairment of liver function and slight liver damage. This can easily be reversed with "The Liver Cleansing Diet" principles and specific dietary supplements.  I have found that it is very difficult for many of my overweight patients to lose weight even though they may be eating only normal amounts, unless I first improve their liver function. Once they are five to six weeks into the "Liver Cleansing Diet" their liver-function tests are usually back to normal and the process of weight loss takes on increased momentum. Yes, the liver is the strategic organ for those who have found it very difficult to lose weight or simply just to maintain a healthy weight as they get older.
TESTS FOR LIVER DISEASE
If you suspect that your liver is not working properly or may be diseased, ask your doctor to check your liver. The liver can be seen with various imaging techniques, such as ultrasound scanning or CAT scanning, which are done by a radiologist. An ultrasound scan of the upper abdomen will show the size and shape of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas. CAT scanning is used to check for cancer or tumors of the liver.
             
Blood tests can check levels of serum bilirubin and bile acids, which may be elevated in certain types of liver and gallbladder disease. If the bilirubin is too high you may also notice that your bowel actions are very pale and that your urine is a darker color because bilirubin is diverted from the bowels to the urine.
             
When diagnosing liver disease, often, but not always the most used test in each disease is generally:
 
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: poo gill on October 21, 2008, 12:39:31 PM
Mariam please dont think negative.

Honestly I saw the report but I am not able to understnd anything. We need a doctor here.


You email  this report to Dr Ali and tell him that they are saying that we will do a liver biopsy after 2 weeks, is it safe to wait.. Also tell him about what they said about the iron  - cannot come down so fast. Lets get his opinion.

His email address is ataher@aub.eu.lb

But your scanned copy is a bit small, can u scan a bit bigger and then email him.  Email the reports to Andy also.
Andy - where are you? Please look into this
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 12:42:49 PM
puja i sis babe i emailed him lol 20 times no response  but babe i sent a copy of aweb site liver doctor i dunno if u can even understand this  thanx so much talking to u has calm me down i swear i love u all u esp cuz u care for me and my son
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 21, 2008, 01:03:51 PM
Hey Mariam , please calm down. i don't want you to rush to conclusions. First thing, what is the unit used in measuring the bilirubin. because there are two kind of units and the number  could differe a lot

Second, please calm down i can see that what you have to work for is the iron over load, once it is down everything will be okay.

Third, liver biopsy is something that is not discuussed over the phone with doctors. Though the procedure is not that dangerous but at times it can be especially with unskilled doctors which is the case with the ones you are dealing with

Fourth, you didn't tell me if aysam is suffering from anyother thing other than thal and if there is any other genetic disorder running in the family

Fifth, i remember that Dr. Beshlawy told you  in the conference that aysam suitable dosage from exjade should be in the 400 level according to his weight and she also advised you to use desferal via IV to reduce iron overload quickly

As for the terms i know nothing about them right now but i will search and let you know.

By the way Andy must be sleeping now cause it is so early because of time difference so we should wait a little bit.

Again i want you to calm down because as i told you ironoverload is the problem now and discussing types of chelators should be postponed now. The important thing right now is to give the correct dosage so that it could be effective

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 01:15:16 PM
MANAL
NO I DONT KNOW OF ANY OTHER DISORDER HE HAS
but i can tell you that i know is that he has other problems like minor things sever osa obsractive sleep dis and to many infections and he was bleeding in his rectrum last month ? they said not to worry his blood showed bleeding in the results they did and also something really odd manal hsi white cells are always high never have they been normal from the day he was born his white cells always
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 01:22:27 PM
manal i posted everything on the site all his results ther are many others wich i also dont understand and all high some low like thyroid stim hormone   4.18*  and many more come like are positive i am trying to send puja a fax but its not going tru so she said she can email dr mawal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 01:35:47 PM
MANAL
HAVE YOU GOT DR BASHWAL EMAIL PHONE NUMBER ANYTHING IS IT POSSIBLE YOU CAN TALK DIRECTLY TO HER PLZ  OR I ASK HER WHATEVER




Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 21, 2008, 01:48:07 PM
Yes i have but unfortunatly she is in Thailand now for a conference but i will send you her email

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 01:53:50 PM
PUJA YOU STILL HERE
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 02:02:38 PM
 :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :wah :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes :rolleyes ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? ??? :huh :huh :huh :huh :huh
                           :huh

                                 :huh

                                        :tired :tired :tired :tired :tired :tired :lousycomputer :lousycomputer :lousycomputer :lousycomputer :lousycomputer :lousycomputer :insomnia :insomnia :insomnia :yahoo :yahoo :yahoo :yahoo :hmph :hmph :whistle :whistle :whistle :banghead :banghead :bat :bat :crazy :frustrated :frustrated :sadnope :computer :computer :computer :computer :laughspit :laughspit :laughspit :chill :what :what :catfight :hey   MMM SEEMS EVERYONEIS NOT HERE
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: nice friend on October 21, 2008, 02:09:34 PM
Aysam ,
check this link i hope it will help you understand the relation between iron overload and live some other effects .... its based on my personal experience and my reports ....
http://www.thalassemiapatientsandfriends.com/index.php?topic=1825.0;highlight=judge

take care
umair
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 02:10:45 PM
       P U J A  ???                                   M A N A L ???                                    A N D Y ???   


 :scared :sadyup :whyme :banghead :computer :hmm :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sick :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sneeze :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :sorrow :think :medicine :vomit :chill    
                     SOMEBODY I NEED YOU I AM SO DEPRESSED AND SO WORRIED
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 02:13:41 PM
                    UMIR  :grin :bighug
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 02:49:51 PM
Aysam,

It is okay my dear, your son is young and between all of us we have a lot of knowledge - he will be okay.  There are so many warning labels that come with thalassemia and it can be scary - let us help you get out of the woods.  You have taken some big steps in taking control of your son's health by joining this group, by attending the conference and equipping yourself with knowledge. 

Make sure that your child is getting his supplements - especially the antioxidants if his ferritin is high.  In Oakland we were told that although our son's iron levels had spiked, due to an increased tranfusion requirement from 2006-2008 - that he escaped any damage because of the antioxidants I was giving him.  During my visit I took all of the supplements that I was giving him with me, the doctor passed them around to his collegue and understudies and said that all thal patients should be on these.  He commented that it finally makes sense to him how my son managed to maintain good health despite thalassemia and antibodies. 

My doctor, who is a wonderful man, does a great job transfusing my child and keeping him healthy, but he was not aware of the need for supplements either.  He has been very open to learning about them however, and recognizes that the large thalassemia centers give much weight to them.  Because I did not learn about supplements from our doctor, I was giving him some on my own, but it was the vitamins recommended to me on this site that the doctors in Oakland commended. 

Have faith my friend, have faith in yourself and your son and keep learning.

Love,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 06:45:25 PM
Mariam,

I have just been reviewing some of you information.  I see that Aysam is positive for anti ttg antibody, you have also mentioned bleeding from his rectum.  Is there any history of celiac disease in the family?  (Please be calm, I don't wish to introduce something more to worry about) - understanding all of these things will help us get a better picture of the results overall. 

Is Asyam's glucose the result of a fasting glucose test?  A random glucose test can vary.  Is the level 5.1mmol/l ? 

Our doctor has told us that it is common to see some elevation of bilirubin for most thal patients (even transfused patients).  Mariam can you tell me the frequency and volume of your son's transfusions?  Bilirubin can also result from hemolysis.  Also, there obvious iron overload in the liver, and the liver is the first place where iron will build up.  The liver function tests do show that the liver is currently stressed (from my understanding of the tests) - but with proper chelation this CAN BE REVERSED.  In order to do this Mariam, Aysam needs you to be strong and coherent.  You need to relax and take care of yourself if you are going to help your child - he needs you! 

Remember that the levels indicated on his results are normal for non thal people - there is a different normal for thals.  Also, you need to pay attention to how far off of the normal scale results actually are - I am trying to review your tests and attempting to interpret them as well as I can.  You mention that the TSH is off - how are the T4 and T3 values?

Very obviously better chelation will help with this problem.  Aysam needs to be on 30mg/kg of his body weight of exjade - (does that work out to be 400mg for him?)  Also, he should be on a minimum of 5 days a week of desferal 12 hours a day.  If you can place the pump in a back pack or a fanny pack it will allow him to play while he is wearing it. 

In the meantime I am working on reviewing your results, if you can answer my questions it will help me out.  Certainly, a qualified thalassemia doctor or clinic needs to review and relay these results to you. 

A liver biopsy is a test to relay liver iron concentration, possible scarring and damage in the liver.  Certainly I would opt for one in your situation, but I would only do it in a proper clinic.  My son had a routine liver biopsy for scanning purposes twice - one at 18months and once at 2 1/2 years.  Although we have great health care here, we travelled 5 hours to a major thalassemia clinic to have his biopsy done - simply because they are more experienced there with the procedure on young children and with testing of the tissue in terms of what is acceptable for a thal patient.  Do you have ferriscan or T2* available there? 

With proper chelation everything will improve.  Along with seeing your hematologist, because of the iron overload I strongly recommend that your son be seen by an endocrinologist and a cardiologist to watch him until his iron levels are under control.  You may want for him to have 24 hour IV desferal a few times a week during the next month.  I know that your doctor is an obstacle for this - but that is how your case would be handled here. 

Smurfette is also located in Sydney, Australia - and she has done amazingly well with her thalassemia and chelation - she has the lowest ferritin out of thal that I know - perhaps you can PM her for more information in your area.  Maybe she has a contact for you. 

I will get back to you again very soon,  I am still working and researching your son's case - please feel free to contact me at anytime. 

BTW your son is absolutely adorable!  hugs and kisses to him from me  :kiss :bighug  He looks good :smiley

Sharmin



Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 08:41:38 PM
Please find below Blood Test Results Normal Range
http://www.bloodbook.com/ranges.html#50-160

Glucose   Tested after fasting: 70 - 110 mg/dL

Bilirubin   Direct: up to 0.4 mg/dL
                Total: up to 1.0 mg/dL

Proteins:
   Total   6.0 - 8.4 gm/dL
   Albumin   3.5 - 5.0 gm/dL
   Globulin   2.3 - 3.5 gm/dL
Prothrombin (PTT)   25 - 41 sec
Pyruvic Acid   0.3 - 0.9 mg/dL
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)   4.2 - 6.9 million/µL/cu mm
Sodium   135 - 145 mEq/L
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)   0.5 - 6.0 µ units/mL
Transaminase:
   Alanine (ALT)   1 - 21 units/L
   Aspartate (AST)   7 - 27 units/L
Urea Nitrogen (BUN)   7 - 18 mg/dL
BUN/Creatinine Ratio   5 - 35
Uric Acid   Male      2.1 to 8.5 mg/dL (likely higher with age)
Female      2.0 to 7.0 mg/dL (likely higher with age)

Dear Mariam,  I don't feel qualified to advise you.  I think that you need to contact a major thalassemia center - even if by email and fax with your results.  I will keep working on this to the best of my ability.

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 08:45:07 PM
Mariam,

Please find contact information that I have sent you in PM.  See if you can send your child's records and get more information.

Best,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 08:52:54 PM
SHARMIN
I will contact all the relevent places today but tell me please so his liver results are to high ?
and his kidneys ?
can he wait i meen they said he wil be fine you know what i meen ?
please sharmin i ma not stressed wjats makeing me stressed is not knwing the truth
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Andy Battaglia on October 21, 2008, 08:55:00 PM
I'll take a look at the test results after work. I am very backed up at work and won't have time until tonight.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 08:59:28 PM
ok
what is your email i will send them to you if you like
but plesae be honest with me my eyes will be glued the the computer screen all day waitting on you i need to knwo the truth you know what i just happend to look at his results last week and noticed almost everything is POSITIVE AND ALMOST EVERYTHING SAYS H NEXT TO IT this is why i posted the results here
on the web site i wasnt worryed i just had a feeling there are many things doctors are not teling me and dont explaine anything so thankyou sharmin
i will be waitting on you
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 09:04:32 PM
thankyou andy
thankyou sharmin
thankyou everyone maybe i have put to much stress on you guys
i am sorry i dont meen to do this but i belive you guys know better than the doctors  :rolleyes
and you will tell me the truth :hugfriend and at least tell me as for my doctors they didnt even say anything about his results at all
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 09:21:34 PM
Hi Mariam,

Thank you for your confidence in me, however I am not an expert on these particular issues.  Andy is the expert, perhaps when he has a chance to look at your results tonight he can give you more concrete information.  In the meantime the major thalassemia centers can also help you. 

Can you compile your results together in an easy to read fashion and then put them into an email?  If so then I can try to get you some other contacts as well. 

I don't think that you child is in immediate risk, but I am not qualified to make that call my friend.  Indeed, his numbers are not in the normal range and he needs to have a professional interpret his results. 

I will be on the look out for you and seeking info as best as I can,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 09:30:32 PM
Maraim,

I am a mom too my dear, don't apologize for feeling scared and needing answers.  I know the desperation that you are feeling and trust me I am giving this my all - I wish that I could easily give you answers, but this is a little beyond my scope so it is taking me longer.  I don't have definitive answers for you.  But we are not going to give up on you or little Aysam.  Let me know when you have compiled your results in a single organized document, I will see what I can do for you. 

We are all in the same boat, and we are in this together,

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 21, 2008, 09:33:46 PM
sharmin  :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 21, 2008, 09:42:21 PM
Mariam,
please find my email address in PM i have just sent you.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 22, 2008, 01:55:23 AM
Mariam,

We are still trying to get you answers.  Your son's health is very important to us - we hope to hear back from the doctor.  In the meantime when Andy is available he will look at your results as well.  Aysam is very precious to us all.

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Smurfette on October 22, 2008, 11:53:30 AM
OK!!!

Sorry to reply late to this..but Aysam? Who is your childs doctor and which hospital do you go to in sydney australia..

I just read most of the posts..

Aysam patients know better than doctors and their parents... Sorry if I offend any parent in here... but thats not my intention..

Only a Thal patient knows what is going on with them...even some doctors dont know what is going on with them...


Please email me aysam and let me know....I might be able to do something...What language do you speak?

Sharmin I hope this helps  :wink
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 22, 2008, 01:23:27 PM
Smurfette,

Thank you very much!  You're the best  :hugfriend

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Smurfette on October 23, 2008, 10:23:25 AM
Aww Sharmin

I have contacted Mariam, we spoke and I gave her some advice to seek a second opinion from another more specialised Haem Thal doctor...

She told me that she has an appoint in Nov sometime..

I will meet up with her one day soon too...So we can talk face to face...

Its just a matter of time..

 :hugfriend
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 26, 2008, 06:19:03 AM
Mariam,

How is our little Aysam?  I am so glad that Smurfette has gotten you connected proper care in your area.  The information she gives you is the most valuable because she has been receiving care there for years - very successfully.  Thalassemia is a chronic disease requiring lifetime management.  Properly managed, thalassemia does not have to cause any major problems.  This is the best thing that you can do for little Aysam.  We are always here to encourage you and to answer any questions you may have to the best of our ability. 

Please give our love to the little cutie:) 

Smurfette, thank you again - Mariam and Aysam will benefit greatly from the information that you have provided for them.

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 26, 2008, 10:32:40 AM
                                                           you both are the best

yes for sure we will meet one day i have to meet you
you give me strenth Smurfette &
sharmin you have the best heart
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Smurfette on October 26, 2008, 11:52:43 AM
 :hugfriend To the both of you!!!

You guys are too much..you both have made me blush...

I only want what is best for your son and he deserves the best treatment out there..

We will meet up for sure...

Take care..

This new pic was taken today..its a recent pic of me... :biggrin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 26, 2008, 04:41:04 PM
Smurfette, you are so pretty in this picture, I like it so much :wink. Your Goddaughter too is beautiful

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 26, 2008, 04:46:05 PM
 :agree  Smurfette, you are gorgeous!  And your god daughter is very pretty too!   

 some flowers for the pretty ladies  :flowers

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Zaini on October 27, 2008, 12:24:01 PM
Hello gorgeous ladies, :biggrin

Theodora you look awesome  :hugfriend say hi to your God daughter for me .

Zaini.
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Smurfette on October 28, 2008, 12:40:42 PM
Zaini and Sharmin and whoever said something nice...

Thank you  :hugfriend :hugfriend :hugfriend

Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: aysam on October 28, 2008, 01:56:27 PM
take a look at this everyone
type in
baby stops breathing while asleep
www.youtube.com.au
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 28, 2008, 08:18:41 PM
Mariam,

It looks quite disturbing.  Does he still breath like this while sleeping?  How is he with running around?

Sharmin
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Manal on October 29, 2008, 03:03:25 AM
If i am not mistaken and you have to check this:

My nephew's pedetrican once told his mother that usually some children from age 0 to 5 have a certain condition ( actually i don't know the term in English) where it can happen that during their sleep their breath stops and starts making sounds like a roaster as a result of the absenseof air coing in or out and they can actually turn blue. When this happenes some drops of chortisone ( the brand name of the drug here is predesol ) are given to children so they can breath. Usually this condition is triggered when the child has cold or flu or he was annoyed and cried while asleep. Usually this condition disappears when the child becomes 5

The doctor explained what hapenes to the larynex ut actually i can't remember ,but he told my sister in law to keep this medicne at home in case this could happen any time during sleep

Mariam, i don't know if this is the same case or not, but you have to check with the doctor

manal
Title: Re: Singapore Scientific Programme Schedule
Post by: Sharmin on October 29, 2008, 03:05:30 AM
Manal,

I think you are describing croup. 

Sharmin