Dear Patients, Doctors and CCSVI Activists/Advocates,

I write this letter with a great deal of excitement flowing (freely and without stenosis) through my venoplastied veins. I had hoped to host a CCSVI event in eastern Canada for quite some time, but I wasn't sure where to start. The map of Canada hanging on my wall almost gave me too many beautiful places to choose from... and then there are all of the lovely people that I have connected with across Canada through Facebook that I would like to meet in-person.  I wondered, "Where should I go?" and "What should I do?" I just couldn't decide...

Then, just when I started to entertain the thought of hosting something in Toronto, Dr. McGuckin called to tell me that VAC had received a personal invitation to visit Ottawa from Amy Preston of CCSVI Ontario. Finally, this was the answer that I had been waiting for!

After talking with Amy, I came to understand that CCSVI Ontario is a grassroots organization that is working with CCSVI groups across the country, as well as with politicians, such as Dr. Kirsty Duncan and Senator Jane Cordy, to allow CCSVI treatment in Canada. We wanted to support them by sponsoring a collaborative event that would allow them to give us an update on their political efforts, while also providing plenty of time for a multidisciplinary group of doctors and scientists to share information on the many aspects of CCSVI with patients, other practitioners, and, if they are so inclined, the media. 

Without further adieu, it is my distinct pleasure to invite you and your guest(s) to our CCSVI Conference at the beautiful new Ottawa Convention Centre on 5 November 2011, from 10am - 4pm. The event is free of charge and it will include food and refreshments. I will continue to update you as time goes on regarding the order of speakers.

We already know that Dr. Mark Haacke, Dr. Trev Tucker and Dr. James McGuckin will be present. (Other confirmations are currently pending.) I am still finalizing the details, but I do know for certain that once it is all said and done, we will have a great, well-rounded line-up. I will regularly share updates on our RSVP page (listed below) as soon as the speakers are finalized. Patients will also have a chance to ask the speakers questions during several designated Q&A periods. If you would like to come, please RSVP here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/205419 and bring your ticket with you the day of the event. (If you do not have the means to print the ticket, please email me at the address below and I will accomodate accordingly.)

See you in Ottawa!

Danielle Rhéaume