We were blessed with a sunny day and the company of so many members for our Information Day on Sat 7th May 2022, our first large face-to-face meeting since Covid. We were delighted that so many members joined us at The United Reformed Church in Sutton Coldfield. The Company reps were back to demonstrate their new products and advise members. At the same time, members with Internal Pouches received expert advice from Consultant Colorectal surgeons Mr Charles Hendrickse and Ms Melissa Cunha. 

Mike Jameson made a presentation and expressed our enormous gratitude to Mr Charles Hendrickse, who is retiring from his role as President of Birmingham IA after so many years. We were lucky to have some wonderful speakers on the day. Birmingham IA member Jess Logan talked about her journey 'From Sickness to Pageant Queen'.

Emma Harlin, one of our local SCNs from Heartlands Hospital, reported on the impact of the Patients' Snacks Initiative which she established during Covid when patients could not receive visitors. Angie Perrin, Clinical Education Lead at Salts Healthcare and Vice-Chair of ASCN, described the Changing Roles of Stoma Nurses and also told us about the new Salts Nurse Academy in Aston. Patient advocate Sue Blackwell, a stoma patient herself, described some of the latest medical trials, including one on parastomal hernias.

After a delicious lunch provided by Cafe Oasis, the Business Meeting took place, followed by a Question and Answer session led by Mr Hendrickse and Ms Cunha.  Members gained expert advice about a range of medical issues. It was a busy, friendly day when we were able to learn more about our health and meet with friends old and new. We're already looking forward to next year's event!