"...We are grateful to have such a wonderful pool of presenters who are willing to participate at such an important event…"

The third HELLP Syndrome Society Symposium was held at beautiful Oglebay Park, Wheeling, W.Va. on June 18-20, 2004.  Several speakers were present for very informative sessions.  Maria Kidner from Wyoming presented her studies on the emotional effects and care that mothers receive post partum.  Dr. Thelma Patrick of Pittsburgh, Pa., showed her findings on the tabulation of our own HELLP Syndrome Society Survey.  Dr. Heather Mertz of West Virginia University presented information on pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome.  Dr. Tom Easterling, from the University of Washington, presented a very informative four-hour presentation on HELLP Syndrome and answered many questions from the participants.  He also spent a great deal of time talking to participants at the evening picnics. 

We are grateful to have such a wonderful pool of presenters who are willing to participate at such an important event.  These presenters gave up time on a weekend from their work and families to provide a wealth of information and support to HELLP Syndrome survivors. 

In addition to attendees who were HELLP survivors, we also had two women attend who had lost their best friend to HELLP Syndrome.  They shared their story and information on the Sheila Foundation, which was established in memory of their friend. 

The weekend concluded with a Memorial Service for all the babies and mothers who have passed away because of HELLP.  As time passes people around you may forget about your loved one who passed away.  When we began this organization we promised that we would never forget the names of the mothers and children who died.  We read the names of each child and mother that we have been given over the years and presented a carnation for each name. 

We hope to have another Symposium in a couple of years.  We hope that you will be able to join us for a wealth of information, support and fellowship.