"...We are pleased to announce the addition of the HELLP Syndrome Medical Advisory Board…"

We have a lot of exciting things in the works at the HELLP Syndrome Society.  We are very happy to share this information with you.

1. The first annual HELLP-A-THON is scheduled for the week of June 17-23, 2007.  This coincides with Taylor Hope's birthday - June 22^nd.  She would have been twelve this coming June.  Information is now up on our web site about the HELLP-A-Thon.  There is also a form to submit online if you would like to participate.  Any questions can be directed to:  hellp_a_thon@yahoo.com  Please visit www.hellpsyndrome.org to learn more about this special event.

2. We are pleased to announce the addition of the HELLP Syndrome Medical Advisory Board.  Over the years we have worked closely with medical experts in the field.  We have finally organized this effort by creating the HELLP Syndrome Society Medical Advisory Board.  We welcome the following:
Dr. Thomas Easterling - University of Washington
Dr. James Roberts - University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Baha Sibai - University of Cincinnati
Dr. Melissa Wilson - University of Southern California

3. Dr. Melissa Wilson and Dr. Helen How are still looking for participants for their research.  If you are interested please visit our web site at:
www.hellpsyndrome.org and click on **Genetic Research** and **Research on Long-Term Effects of HELLP **.  There is no travel involved.

Dr. Wilson is looking for women and their family members to submit genetic samples (cotton swab of the inside of your cheek) through the mail.  This is very simple.  After consenting, she will send you a kit with directions on how to use the swab. 

Dr. How is looking for women who are experiencing health issues after they have had HELLP.  She is studying whether these health issues are related to HELLP. 

The more participants we have involved in either or both studies the better the results.  Please consider participating if you have not already done so.  Your identity is kept confidential.  If you have any questions please email us at HELLP1995@aol.com.

4. The HELLP Syndrome Society is "going west." We are planning to have a gathering of HELLP Syndrome Society members and their families in conjunction with the NASSHP (North American Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy) Conference in San Diego, the end of June.  We are still in the planning stages, but here is what we are working on so that you can reserve this time on your calendar. 

Thursday, June 28, 2007 (evening) - a social gathering of the HELLP Syndrome Society member - this will be an informal setting for members to share stories and meet other HELLP survivors. 

Friday, June 29, 2007 - (morning) - a session presented by doctors who are members of the NASSHP.  This session will allow you to ask questions of these experts as well as hear important information. 

In addition, Dr. Wilson is going to be on site to collect DNA samples for her research for anyone who would like to participate. 

Please keep checking our web site for more information on this event.  We are excited about meeting our west coast friends in person.