The Michigan chapter has been having success with frequent small get-togethers of 2-14 members, usually for a Saturday brunch in a public restaurant, in different locations around the state. This offers people an opportunity nearby to meet others with VHL.

A state-wide social was given by the Michigan Chapter on May 2, 1998, in Grand Rapids at the Breton Health Plaza. There was an abundance of coffee, juice, donuts, and informational handouts from many sister organizations for all who were able to attend. Attendees heard a very beneficial presentation on stress management, given by Gerri Navarre, MSW, ACSW, a supervisor for the Patient and Family Counseling Department of Metropolitan Hospital in Grand Rapids. Everyone, including Ms. Navarre, had an opportunity to learn about VHL and the VHL Family Alliance as they looked over displays and tables lining one entire side of the room and selected information to take home. Along with an enlightening slide presentation and open discussion on approaches for managing stress, Ms. Navarre brought along numerous topic-related books for us to look over and provided everyone with a Stress Audit from the Biobehavioral Institute of Boston to determine their individual level of susceptibility to stress and factors that contribute to it. New faces were seen, much was learned, and an enjoyable morning was had by all.

California, by Dawn Cerf

Thirty-eight members of the California Chapter gathered on April 18, 1998, on the beautiful campus of Stanford University, for their fourth annual statewide meeting. About half of the attendees were returning members, and it was the first VHLFA meeting for the other half.

Our speaker was Dr. John Adler of Stanford’s Department of Neurosurgery. Dr. Adler has previously spoken at VHL nationwide conferences and is on the cutting edge of VHL stereotactic treatment of the brain and cervical spine. He inspired us with information on current and future possibilities of treatment, including the possibility of using stereotactic radiosurgery on all parts of the spine and eventually internal organs. His talk ended with a tour of Stanford’s new Cyberknife machine.

Members also gathered for a roundtable discussion of experiences, concerns, and coping methods. Many issues surfaced, including the emotional issue of child-bearing. Everyone agreed that the recent VHL Family Forum newsletter handled the topic extremely well.

It was a wonderful day of knowledge, networking, and shared feelings. Dinner at a nearby restaurant afterwards allowed some of use to have more time to socialize. One quote from our meeting’s evaluation form sums up the general feeling of everyone: "It is nice to know the support and knowledge are out there. Thank you!"

As printed in the VHL Family Forum 6:2, June 1998. For permission to reprint, please contact VHL Family Alliance, info@vhl.org.