Conference Online Q&A Chats

First-time Attendees
Transcript: 5/21/08

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 1:58:49 PM)
Welcome! This is Jennie Carman, PHA’s Meeting Planning Associate. I will be moderating today’s chat for First-time Conference Attendees. Please keep in mind that because this chat is being moderated it may take a minute for your questions to be answered and appear in the chat box. Thanks for your patience. Today’s speakers will be Linda Carr, co-chair of the Conference Committee, and Angie Eldam, co-leader of the Houston area Support Group.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 1:58:53 PM)
Welcome Meg in SC and Carol L. Where are you located?

Carol L (May 21, 2008 1:59:46 PM)
I am located in Bellevue, Nebraska

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 1:59:48 PM)
I am in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and am a support group leader for SC.

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:00:25 PM)
Okay, I am a co-leader of the Nebraska/Western Iowa support group

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:00:52 PM)
Hi everyone. I'm Linda Carr, as Jennie mentioned, the co-chair of this conference. I live in Miami Florida.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:01:13 PM)
Meg & Carol, will this be the first PHA Conference you are attending?

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:01:34 PM)
Yes

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:01:36 PM)
Yes, and I am SOOOOO excited!!1

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:01:58 PM)
Great! What part you exicted about most?

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:02:37 PM)
Just being around people like me, and not having to explain that I don't have COPD.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:03:46 PM)
When I first joined PHA in Jan. 07, I saw lots of info from the '06 conference. I really want to be a part of all of that.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:04:36 PM)
Well there will certainly be a lot going on at the 2008 Conference. In addition to the programs that occured in 2006 we have some great new sessions going on. The PHA staff is particuarly excited about the Meet and Greet on Thursday evening, and the networking sessions for patients and their families on Friday morning.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:04:40 PM)
Welcome Ginlyn. Where are you located?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:04:45 PM)
It's always an interesting experience at conference when you see so many people wearing pumps. My daughter was on Flolan for ten years (she's been off a while now) and as a child loved seeing all those pumps-it was normal at conference. And everyone taking meds

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:04:47 PM)
I'm also excited to meet in person all of these folks that I have been emailing with for the past 1 1/2 yrs.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:05:16 PM)
And welcome Cheryl and Sheila B. Where are you all from?

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:05:24 PM)
Hi everyone, I'm one of the Houston Support group leaders. I have been to all the conferences except the first one.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:05:31 PM)
Hi all!! I'm from Iowa. I am a first time attendee and am excited to meet everyone!!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:05:43 PM)
Hi there! I am here in the Greater Houston Area

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:06:06 PM)
Wow. A lot of people jumping on. Hi, Pat. Where are you logging on from?

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:06:08 PM)
Hello, everyone! I promise that I don't really look like a goofy duck.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:06:32 PM)
As you can see both Linda and Angie have a lot of experience with PHA Conferences, does anyone have any questions they'd like to ask about what to expect in Houston?

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:06:51 PM)
Hi Sheila, hope you are doing well.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:07:02 PM)
Well, at least we will have a base of names to work from, so introductions won't be so awkward.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:07:03 PM)
Has anyone been to houston?

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:07:37 PM)
Yes, I was there briefly once.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:07:39 PM)
Hi everyone, this will be a first for myself as well

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:07:54 PM)
No, never been to Houston, this will be my first time.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:08:00 PM)
I am from South Dakota and never been to HOuston or COnference

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:08:21 PM)
And I am a rookie on both counts as well.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:08:29 PM)
Hi Angie, I am proud to say that right now I am doing better Angie. By far not well but better than I was is great for me. LOL I have been almost bed bound for months

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:09:45 PM)
Well the Hilton is a beautiful property, carefully selected after we searched in a few cities and toured numerous hotels. I think everyone will be comfortable there. The staff is being well educated on our group and has been very helpful. You will probably find that you do not leave the hotel for several days. So don't worry about the heat!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:09:58 PM)
Yes, it is hot and humid this week. The sunshine is beautiful though. Believe it or not, you should bring a sweater because the hotel and restaurants will crank the A/C up and you will be cold if you don't.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:10:04 PM)
Well I can tell you guys Houston is a nice place. yes it will be hot and humid. The one thing you guys need to keep in mind it is a HUGE place so things to do may be spread out all over the place.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:10:06 PM)
I look forward to meeting people. I live to far away from support group and don't always get online

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:10:10 PM)
Is anyone here going to do the fashion show?

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:10:42 PM)
The fashion show is the biggest attended event and it's a blast!!

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:10:42 PM)
I hope so, Meg! The Fashion Show is a Conference favorite. And this year, PHA has opened it up to patients who use oxygen, and well as medical pumps.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:11:15 PM)
Meg I honestly have no need to go to the fashion show but I do have insulin pump so I might go anyway. LOL!!

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:11:33 PM)
I am not going to the fashion show. I just hide my pump in my bra and noone knows I wear one. If it wasn't for the tubes hanging from my nose . . .

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:11:35 PM)
That will be something that I am looking very forward to.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:11:56 PM)
Believe me, all the topics are interesting and you will find it hard to decide which ones to attend. It's like a kid in a candy store.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:12:05 PM)
I have a question - I thought I read somewhere that every attendee would receive a dvd or cd of the sessions so if we didn't take good notes it would be on the cd, is that correct? If not, can I bring a dictaphone to record the session?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:12:05 PM)
I believe all will receive a CD of most of the sessions. You can check with the PHA staff on that for confirmation.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:12:11 PM)
I am looking so forward to having fun with people who have my limitations. And Sheila, Some of the med pumps look like insulin pumps.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:13:01 PM)
Yes, all attendees will be getting a CD with all the audio recordings of the sessions sent to them after Conference.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:13:27 PM)
Are there people who come with styles of stuff and you wear it or do I have to come up with stuff

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:13:27 PM)
This year we are asking models to bring three or four outfits themselves. Once you sign up (you can do so by emailing Jillian at Jillian@PHAssociation.org.) the Fashion show coordinator will contact you to walk you through the process.

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:13:45 PM)
Now that I am able to walk again (the remodulin affected my leg muscles) I am really excited about going to a conference. I am excited to be able to meet the people from PHA that I have talked with. But hoping there are not so many activiites that there will be no time to just rest and talk with other people. Is that a problem with so many activities?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:13:45 PM)
This is always an issue--too much to do. Sometimes a patient just needs to miss a session in order to rest or visit with friends. That's why the sessions being recorded is a help.

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:14:18 PM)
Woo Hoo! I'll look forward to the CD.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:14:22 PM)
The traffic can be a nightmare, especially downtown, but it's not any different that other big cities I have visited. LA and NYC are definitely worse.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:14:23 PM)
I'm hoping to go the the Fashion Show for at least part of it this time. Last time I was working through it and heard how fun it was and felt I was missing out on something. It's definitely a Conference favorite, and we've made it so it doesn't conflict with anything else this time.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:15:16 PM)
Just a reminder, since there are so many great questions and only two speakers, it will take a mintue or two for your question and the answer to appear in the chat. We will get to all of your questions, thanks for your patience!

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:15:20 PM)
Sounds like I better change my other mind and go to the fashion show. I hate missing out on fun stuff.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:15:50 PM)
C'mon Carol L, it'll be fun!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:15:59 PM)
Angie, thank you for saying that I have been telling folks in chat that there is no way they are going to arrive in Houston late afternoon, get baggage, taxi to hotel, check in, go eat somewhere, rest and get to the meet and greet by 7pm.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:16:20 PM)
I do have a question. I just got a really small portable oxygen concentrator and it only last a few hours one a charge. Will it be okay if I sit near and electrical outlet and plug it in while during meetings, or should I not do that?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:16:20 PM)
Sheila I'm not able to answer this one, is there a patient on here with more information?

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:17:08 PM)
From what I've heard, you won't be alone sitting near an outlet.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:17:36 PM)
I definitey want to see that, and also "Dining With A Doc."

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:17:36 PM)
Dine with a Doc is another Conference favorite. This year we've added more doctors. At the dinner Saturday evening several tables will be marked with the doctors that will be sitting there and the topics they will discuss. It is on a first come, first serve basis though, so be sure to get there early!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:17:50 PM)
The sessions are flexible. If you must leave during a session, just do it quietly. Everyone knows that sometimes we need to excuse ourselves.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:18:13 PM)
Will we get a agenda with detailed information on the sessions so that we know which one we want to attend

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:18:13 PM)
Yes, in fact we recommend you review the agenda which will be online in advance of going to conference. It really pays to plan ahead!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:18:14 PM)
Diane and Jennie I have a question for you guys. Another member asked me this and I had no idea. Do you guys have PH or does anyone at PHA have it?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:18:14 PM)
The PHA staff are not patients, but love helping everyone in the PHA community nonetheless.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:18:16 PM)
Also, if you need a power outlet, it is best to arrive early for the session to find one to sit by.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:18:21 PM)
okay well if not I might be sharing oxygen with someone else. LOL

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:19:10 PM)
Can we pack in an outlet strip since many of us will have portable oxygen machines??

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:19:10 PM)
Please do. But keep in mind that there will be many patients and a limited number of outlets. It is a good idea to use the outlets in your hotel room whenever possible.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:19:14 PM)
We have a page online where you can keep checking for a list of the medical professionals signed up to do a table at Dine with a Doc and the topics they will be talking about here: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/DineWithDoc.asp.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:19:30 PM)
I did not think so and of course we all love what all you do for us. Thanks!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:21:15 PM)
If you need to rent a scooter, you will need to arrange that separately, possibly the hotel can give you some resources to call.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:21:21 PM)
I don't think any of us would be where we are without PHA and all of you.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:21:21 PM)
Thanks Meg! We always love to hear feedback from the PH Community.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:21:27 PM)
I will be using a scooter throughout the conference, do I leave it at the back of the room so I am able to sit at a table?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:21:27 PM)
Most of the meeting rooms do not have tables, they are chairs set "theatre" style. Sounds like you would leave the scooter wherever there is space in the room and take a seat. For the meals, yes we will all be at tables (rounds of ten) and there will be space in the very large ballroom for your scooter.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:21:30 PM)
Welcome clarice2. Where are you logging in from? Got any burning questions?

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:21:36 PM)
We will just see what happens I guess. If I am running low I might have to just go back and charge up and them go back. LOL!! this new thingy is really nice I think, but I worry to much about running out. at least with tanks I had back up

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:22:39 PM)
Thanks Meg. One of the rewarding things about working at PHA is knowing how much you all appreciate us. It makes our work that much more fulfilling. :)

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:22:41 PM)
Sheila, what kind of portable concentrator do you have? How hard was it to get your insurance to approve it?

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:23:17 PM)
Do you carry a back up battery? My oxygen company loaned me an Inogen Machine and 2 batteries. Gotta love that

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:23:22 PM)
Angie, I actually looked into renting a scooter and I guess depending on who you use they are not real accomidating with that. Pretty much they want to deliver it when you are at hotel and then pick it up the same way. they do not want to do it like oxygen concentrators and leave it in the hands of hotel staff

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:23:48 PM)
There is a 'tunnel' system under the hotel and there are shops and restaurants there. The hotel is connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center so that is a good place to 'google' to find nearby attractions, depending on your exercise tolerance.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:23:49 PM)
Will there be an area for us to make our medicine or should we go to our hotel room to do that?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:23:49 PM)
It might be a good idea to go back to your hotel room. There will be a freezer room with space to rest and change out your freezer packs (PHA will provide fresh ones) but there is not a ton of space. There will also be plently of chairs and areas to rest throughout the meeting area.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:24:04 PM)
Is there any event for which we would need to dress up, like Sunday clothes?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:24:04 PM)
There is a wide range of dress. I notice the professionals, especially doctors, will wear business clothes for their Friday scientific session and also to present at the Sat and Sun medical sessions. The attendees dress more casually. It's appropriate to wear somewhat nicer clothes for the dinners if you wish but not all do.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:24:29 PM)
Meg, I have the airsep freestyle. Insurance did not approve it but my company is letting me have it as my portable oxygen. Now I do have a really good friend that works there so I kinda got it because of her.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:24:41 PM)
What kind of price did you obtain on the scooter rental?

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:24:45 PM)
fyi, for those of you traveling with oxygen, you should check out the resources online and our chat transcript from last week: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/chats/TravelHoustonChat051408.asp.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:25:31 PM)
Meg I got prices of $50 or more a day for a scooter. I will try and call other places too

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:25:54 PM)
for dress attire, it's more important that you wear layers because temperatures can vary, and it can get pretty cold in some of the rooms.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:26:22 PM)
Thanks Diane, I did that yesterday and there are several companies and the one that supplies me here is also located in Houston.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:26:37 PM)
We also have a new PARK just across the street from the hotel, it's called DiscoveryGreen. It opened in March and there is lots to do there.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:26:38 PM)
but I've seen the whole spectrum of dress, including Dr. Mike McGoon is his Hawaii tees. :)

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:27:13 PM)
I rented one for a trip to NYC that I took with my daughter last year. The company is called Scootaround. They have a local Co. deliver the scooter to the hotel and then you just leave it there when you leave, and they pick it up.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:28:07 PM)
He is always so handsome at my office visits to him, and of course so professionaly dressed, that I would have to get a photo of him in other attire !!!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:28:14 PM)
how much did the scooter cost then Meg?

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:29:05 PM)
I think it was in the neighborhood of 110;00 for the four days I had it.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:29:27 PM)
I have not seen him in Hawwii tees. I could look forward to that. I miss him as my doctor

Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:29:32 PM)
In October I paid $125 a week in Las Vegas

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:29:36 PM)
Will there be exhibitors or vendors that we can visit?

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:29:36 PM)
Yes, yes, yes. The corporations that are involved with the conference have told me every conference that they truly enjoy meeting the patients who actually use the products or services they provide. It motivates them greatly in their work. There will be dozens of exhibits. Jennie may have a count for you.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:29:46 PM)
Going back to the question about a CD of the sessions, all attendees will be mailed a CD with the audio from the medically-led sessions, patient and family-led sessions and skill-building sessions after Conference. The same audio will be available on the PHA website as well.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:29:49 PM)
That's $110.00. Sorry!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:30:49 PM)
WOW, obviously I have been calling the wrong places when I got a quote of $50/day. Maybe the person I talked to made a mistake. LOL

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:30:51 PM)
So Cheryl, do you go to Mayo ??

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:31:24 PM)
The 'tunnel' system is open M-F during normal business hours and from 10A-3P on Saturdays

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:31:26 PM)
Which brings up a question, is photos allowed ??? In good taste, not interupting any speakers or such.

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:31:26 PM)
Yes, in fact PHA will also have a photographer working throughout the conference. Those who do not wish to have their photo taken will have a special badge so you know their wishes.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:31:34 PM)
If a lot of people have scooters and wheelchairs is there enough room for all of us in the meeting rooms that the sessions are held in?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:31:34 PM)
When arranging the set-up for the meeting rooms we've allowed some space for scooters and wheelchairs. For the sessions in smaller rooms, space is available on a first come, first serve basis. So if there is a session you do not want to miss, it is a good idea to get there early.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:31:38 PM)
I think getting a CD is a great thing. Thanks for doint that

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:32:05 PM)
I went to Mayo until the insurance refused to put me on a lung transplant list there so now I go to Denver with Dr. Bull

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:32:38 PM)
Are you listed there?

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:32:51 PM)
I see, Cheryl...sorry.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:32:57 PM)
I had my double lung transplant 13 years ago

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:33:37 PM)
When is the best time to see the exhibitors and not miss something

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:33:37 PM)
Look at the schedule (it's online). Try to start seeing them as soon as they are set up because you will run out of time. They also bring goodies for those who visit their booths! We also hope people will visit them during the breaks.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:33:38 PM)
Yes, the CD is a great thing!! Thanks it helps out a lot if I miss something while taking notes.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:33:38 PM)
Exactly! And we encourage attendees to share the CD with others who are not able to make it to Houston, so no one misses out on all the valuable information.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:33:40 PM)
Yes, I am listed

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:34:23 PM)
Make sure you pack light, you will need extra room for all the 'goodies' from all the conference vendors. SG Leaders especially, to bring extra back to the group.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:34:41 PM)
On the Pre-Conference Activities - what is the Special Events Workshop about? Is it about PH awareness or fundraising?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:34:41 PM)
A little of both. If you're intrested in learning more about that workship, it may be a good idea to contact Deirdre Farrell, who handles special events for PHA, at Deirdre@PHAssociation.org.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:34:44 PM)
The exhibitors will have lots of fun stuff, including a magician called Hondo, who was also at the last conference. And PHA will have a booth as well with all kinds of info and a place to tell us your stories and view demos of tools and resources on the web. It'll be a ton of stuff to see!

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:34:55 PM)
Maybe an empty suitcase!!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:35:13 PM)
The schedule is here: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/Agenda.asp to get you started with your planning.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:35:32 PM)
and wear comfortable shoes!!!!!!!!!

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:35:59 PM)
I have not looked at the schedule in a while but the one that I could not figure out was the one talking about Left Heart Issues and that is the one I want to attend more than anything. Maybe I need to look again

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:36:01 PM)
Always!!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:36:35 PM)
Welcome Jackie! Where are you located?

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:37:01 PM)
Hi I'm in IL

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:37:09 PM)
I see Jackie's bags are packed.............. :)

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:37:22 PM)
lol

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:37:40 PM)
Carol and Sheila, I thought I read on the forum that you both would only be there in spirit, just wanted to tell you both that I am looking forward to meeting you.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:37:42 PM)
I have a question

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:38:17 PM)
Yeah, the left heart issues interest me as well. I was taking one of the drugs and it caused problems with my left wedge pressure. Too much fluid!! And to whoever it was who was on remodulin, I can sympathize with you on the leg pain. I was in the trial of the oral version, and could not tolerate the drug.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:38:35 PM)
I am a last-minute registrant. Our leader was not able to go and I'm getting to go in her place.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:39:12 PM)
I did not realize you used to take remodulin, Carol

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:39:36 PM)
does the website Diane listed indicate the schedule (times,locations, etc.) for the scientific meetings as well as everything else?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:39:36 PM)
The Scientific Sessions occur on Friday, and are for medical professionals. Since they will devote the rest of Conference to sharing information with patients, they have this one day to exchange information amoungst medical professionals. Patients can attend the sessions, but we ask they refrain from asking questions and sit at the tables reserved specfically for non-medical professionals.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:40:00 PM)
Jackie, I am also in Illinois

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:40:35 PM)
hiya Pat

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:40:37 PM)
I still do take remodulin. I am doing well on it. Take methadone for pain and am now a new woman.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:40:43 PM)
Jackie & Pat - I'm grew up in Illinois but live in Iowa now.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:40:48 PM)
will the website listed indicated the times, etc for these sessions?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:40:48 PM)
That information can be found under "Scientific Sessions" on the Conference webpage.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:41:00 PM)
Pat I will be there unless I cannot make it medically. I am registered and plan to go though

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:41:02 PM)
thanks

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:41:13 PM)
Is everyone flying to Houston? Do you have any questions about the logistics of travel? The PHA board and staff have been to the hotel (we had a meeting there earlier this year.)

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:41:40 PM)
There are medically-led sessions that are the more medical ones for patients and family members and they are listed with full descriptions and speakers on the agenda page.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:41:44 PM)
Will keep you in warm thoughts and prayers, Sheila

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:41:46 PM)
I am driving since I am bringing my scooter. We are also visitng family in Houston and Dallas.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:42:09 PM)
Hobby Airport is smaller than Bush, but it is still a good sized airport.

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:42:14 PM)
We will be driving

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:42:37 PM)
That's great. There is a charge to park at the hotel, and more for valet. Be prepared for that, or better yet have your Houston family drop you off.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:42:40 PM)
Where in Iowa. I'm flying out of Omaha but have direct flight. Travel is not easy and two batteries are a must for portable machines.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:42:45 PM)
Have you looked into parking alternatives?

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:42:57 PM)
I am flying US Airways into Houston Intercontinental. I'm actually meeting my co-leader from SC, because he lands about an hpour after me. We are sharing a cab to the hotel.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:43:27 PM)
Iowa City, IA, home of the Hawkeyes!!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:43:52 PM)
Good idea! Supershuttle information is on the PHA website. Taxi fare within downtown is a flat $6.00.

clarice2 (May 21, 2008 2:43:57 PM)
Hi! I am in Wisconsin and was just recently diagnosed with PH.

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:44:04 PM)
There are lots in the area but that means walking. Some caregivers drop off the patient and go park & walk back. The garage next to the hotel is very convenient and was not too expensive, but again it's a walk to the main area of the hotel.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:44:29 PM)
How much is parking at the hotel?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:44:29 PM)
Self parking is $14 per day and valet is $24 per day.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:44:31 PM)
hi clarice2

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:44:33 PM)
My machine has an enternal battery and one other battery that looks like a fanny pack almost. Otherwise it is not like the bigger POC"s where you have several backup batteries

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:44:34 PM)
Clarice, are you coming to conference?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:44:56 PM)
What are the aspects of Conference you are looking forward to the most? A particular skill-building workshop or networking sessions, hearing a certain speaker, or maybe particpating in Conference Journeys?

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:45:28 PM)
I think listening to and meeting specialists other then one's own will be interesting

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:45:56 PM)
Skill building workshops, and the networking sessions. And I may be participating in the Journeys.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:45:57 PM)
I still remember my first conference like it was last month, it was like a family reunion, but better because everyone knew how difficult life with PH is. Your family tries, but when you have a good day, the want to believe you are cured...........

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:46:34 PM)
It will be really unusual for me to be in a room with many others also living with remodulin!!

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:46:36 PM)
Oh Girlyn- I wanted to ask. I use to live there and I am a CYCLONE

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:46:52 PM)
Yes, that's really valuable Jackie. This will be my seventh conference and I still enjoying learning about the different approaches from the various experts.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:46:59 PM)
I know....my dad (80 Yrs. old) still thinks all I need to do is walk to "get my strength back in my legs.

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:47:04 PM)
Skill building workshops and the networking sessions. I am also excited to see the fashion show. Want to try the Journeys but might be too shy to do that.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:47:06 PM)
Journeys is a wonderful presentation. You get to hear the medical professional's take on the patient's Journey.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:47:09 PM)
I am looking forward to meeting all my phriends that I have met on here. I also want to attend some of the scientific sessions but I am a Respiratory Therapist so I might also see others I know that go to that. LOL

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:47:40 PM)
I am interested in the educational topics to help me better handle my situation, as well as the networking with others. I also hope there are o2 venders there to see what is available to purrchase somewhere down the line. I was told by Dr. McGoon that I would learn alot.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:47:47 PM)
I look forward to networking sessions and meeting people from other parts of the countries. Am also looking forward to skill-building workshops for leaders. I want to hear what is on the horizon for the young people (I'm 70 so just getting up is a good horizon for me)

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:48:10 PM)
I recently changed drs. but am excited to see those that are attending that I used to work with.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:48:37 PM)
hard to imagine rooms filled with so very many PH'ers in one structure

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:49:01 PM)
If you need assistance at the airport between gates, notify the airline you are flying and make sure if you have any layovers there is time to get from one gate to another. You are usually the first to board, but the last to get off and if you have a connecting flight, you may miss it.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:49:06 PM)
Net working. I am from the Rapid City area presently and I do not have the supportl. I wish there was a peiece of paper I can sign to say please hook me up with someone close by

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:49:07 PM)
Cheryl - I'll still greet you with a smile, eventhough you are a Cyclone fan!!!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:49:10 PM)
And you could tell your Journey via video to one of our filmmakers, but if you're shy you can type in your story or write it out at the Journeys Cafe in the exhibit hall. You can tell about your experience at Conference or your life with PH.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:50:04 PM)
I guess I am confused about the Journey. IS that at a dinner or a like one of the sessions. it sounds great

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:50:04 PM)
It is both. The Journeys luncheon on Saturday will feature three PH patients and their physicans/nurses. They will share their personal PH story, it is always a moving lunch and a Conference tradition. The other program, which Diane just described, gives patients a chance to share their stories through PHA.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:50:12 PM)
I really want to visit with some of the vendors and meet their representatives . I look forward to meetig everyone from PHA the most. Love you guys. You are SO much help and joyful to work with. Love you, absolutely love you!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:50:48 PM)
The Journeys lunch where a doctor and patient tell about their Journey together, is a very moving thing. one of my favorite meal presentations.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:50:58 PM)
So will people be going around with video cameras taping us or do we go sit down in a room and answer questions?

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:51:29 PM)
Same here, can't wait to meet the PHA staff. Will you all be at the registration table?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:51:29 PM)
We will be all over! PHA staff will be wearing bright blue shirts - so you will be able to find us whenever you have a question or just want to say hi.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:51:31 PM)
The Journeys lunch dates back to the beginning of our Conferences.

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:52:16 PM)
I am with Carol I want to visit with vendors and especially meet some of you from PHA. Angie of course I will be glad to finally see you in person. Angie was one of the first that I talked to about PH and we have been email buddies since. LOL

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:52:18 PM)
If you're interested in telling your video Journey you should sign up here: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/VideoJourneys.asp or sign up at the Journeys Cafe at Conference.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:53:11 PM)
We're also looking for people to use our little Flip video cameras to record the stories. You can sign up for that at the same webpage.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:53:38 PM)
Will a copy of this chat be on the PHA site later? I got booted off at one time and missed out on much. Not my network something with the DigiChat

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:54:26 PM)
have the 3 patients/doctors for Saturday already been selected?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:54:26 PM)
Yes, PHA staff and the Conference Committee start planning for the next Conference just about as soon as the last one ends.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:54:54 PM)
We will wrap up the chat in about five mintues, does anyone have any other questions they'd like to ask Linda, Angie or the PHA staff?

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:55:02 PM)
Along the lines of meeting your PHriends. The Thursday meet and greet and the Friday networking sessions will be great for that. If you're interested in meeting your online PHriends, one of the Friday morning networking sessions (10:30am) will be for the online community from the message boards, email listservs and online support group chats.

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:55:10 PM)
Yes the Journeys lunch participants were selected a few months ago.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:55:34 PM)
The transcripts for all the Conference chats can be viewed here: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/2008/chats/ and this one will be up later today.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:56:17 PM)
have they been announced?

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:56:17 PM)
No, not formally. The most up to date information on speakers, for sessions and meals, can be found on the PHA Conference website.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:56:25 PM)
Thanks, everyone, for all your help!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:56:45 PM)
Who plans to arrive on Thursday?

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:57:00 PM)
I asked this earlier but did not see my question pop up on the screen will there be a handout given to the participants indicating times and locations for conferences, etc (other than what is on the computer)

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:57:00 PM)
Yes, when you check in at the registration desk you will be given a Conference Program book which will have all the information on sessions, locations and activites.

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:57:01 PM)
I'd love to see you at the MEET AND GREET

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:57:04 PM)
Thank you guys so much for helping us and planning these conferences. I am really excited about getting to go.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:57:05 PM)
I have learned so much today. Looks like I need to get on line more often. Thank you SO much for this opportunity.

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 2:57:10 PM)
I will.

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:57:14 PM)
I will be there Thursday afternoon

clarice2 (May 21, 2008 2:57:16 PM)
I do.

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:57:17 PM)
YEs

SheilaB (May 21, 2008 2:57:19 PM)
Well I will already be here but I am going to the Meet and Greet on Thursday

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:57:23 PM)
Just want to thank you all for the time and trouble to answer these questions for us first time attendees, you all indeed have done a great job and please know that you are all very appreciated.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:57:25 PM)
I am arriving Thursday

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:57:29 PM)
oh great Jennie

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:57:34 PM)
No I don't have any other questions. Just want to tell you all at PHA that you are doing an amazing job with this conference. I know how much work goes into putting on a conference. I used to work for the University of Iowa Conference Center, hosting conferences for all departments in the university.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:57:39 PM)
Welcome Pete. Better late than never. We're wrapping up but do you have any burning questions?

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:57:50 PM)
The meet and greet will be at 7:00p, looking forward to meeting you Jackie

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:58:06 PM)
great!!

Ginlyn (May 21, 2008 2:58:38 PM)
I will be arriving on Thursday

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 2:58:43 PM)
I would like to meet you Angie since I am on the upper part of the Transplant list

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 2:58:45 PM)
See you at the meet and Greet. Look for gray hair flying in the wind . . .

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:58:57 PM)
lol

Pat (May 21, 2008 2:59:19 PM)
Carol...that would be me !!!

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 2:59:21 PM)
Be sure to complete the conference evaluations when you are there. The conference committee adn PHA staff looks at those results and comments very carefully to make the next conference better than ever.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 2:59:23 PM)
Thanks everyone for joining us today. You all have asked some great questions! If you do have any further questions please feel free to email me at Jennifer@PHAssociation.org, and I will try to answer your question or pass it along to someone who can.

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 2:59:30 PM)
I'll be obvious by my promotion of PHA's website on my blue PHA staff tee. :)

clarice2 (May 21, 2008 2:59:32 PM)
Thank you all!

Jackie (May 21, 2008 2:59:40 PM)
thanks for the info

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 2:59:41 PM)
I'll be there all weekend helping out........and at the meals. One thing I like to do is sit at a different table at each meal and meet new people. It's soo much more fun.

LindaCarr (May 21, 2008 3:00:23 PM)
Thanks for your help Angie! And the PHA staff has been doing a great job in the planning for Houston. This will be the best conference yet!

Jackie (May 21, 2008 3:00:43 PM)
bye

Meg in SC (May 21, 2008 3:01:00 PM)
bye everyonr!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 3:01:06 PM)
Yes, tthe PHA staff has been doing a great job!!

PHAWebmasterDiane (May 21, 2008 3:01:14 PM)
Thank you everyone. And don't forget to check out Conference details and updates on the Conference website at: http://www.phassociation.org/Conference/.

Moderator/Jennie (May 21, 2008 3:01:17 PM)
Just a reminder, next week's chat will be the last in our Conference Chat series: May 28 at 2pm – Pediatrics and Children’s Activities.

Rejoining: Carol L (May 21, 2008 3:01:21 PM)
Bye See you in Houston!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 3:01:27 PM)
Thank you too Linda!!!

Cheryl (May 21, 2008 3:01:35 PM)
By and look forward to seeingyou

AngieEldam (May 21, 2008 3:01:42 PM)
Y'all come on down, over, up, whatever.............