Abstract
Preparing for this conference has caused me to stop and really consider the very global nature of our fabulous organization, from membership to activities and resources. Allow me a few moments to share a few thoughts about the multifaceted concept of “global.”
First and most obviously, we cannot neglect noting that well more than 1,000 people have taken the time and energy to join NABN. Currently, we have hundreds of active members from across the United States and in countries abroad. We have members who recognize their specialty focus in nursing from pediatrics to geriatrics, and surgery to rehabilitation. The members of NABN are nurse practitioners, researchers, teachers, academicians, and direct care nurses. Many experience overweight, obesity, and morbid obesity, and then some are quite slight. What all members have in common, however, is that they are dedicated to building a greater understanding of the art and science of caring for people of size and enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families. It is impossible not to be amazed by the global nature of the care these talented and caring people provide to this significant population of the world. As NABN continues to share the message of the evolving science of obesity and hopes for a cure to both the disease and the vast array of comorbidities, we have supported improved care for all who experience the disease regardless of their age, gender, marital status, and burden of need.
NABN continues to grow and provide progressively more global access to resources for the members of the organization. Starting as an opportunity to share a passionate concern, we have grown to a global organization. We are now looking forward to new and progressive ways to deliver resource materials and facilitate networking for our active membership. Currently under development, but soon to be completed, is a face-lifting of our website that will provide increased connectivity and many additional options for the members. Options being considered include newsletters, member forums, and resources and education opportunities. As we plan for our new and improved website to go live, please start to think about how you can be involved Also, please consider sharing your experiences, learning, and research with NABN members and others who have interest in caring for patients with obesity by submitting manuscripts to our journal. You, too, can write, create a poster, and share in a forum. Make your voice heard! While we consider speaking out, consider starting your own local organization. The first state chapter will have the Inaugural Meeting on July 30 in Raleigh, NC. You could host the beginnings of the next state chapter. Finally, get the word out and be seen … and I think Nashville in September would be a great place to be seen.
As I write this update, we are packing for the Conference. We are planning for our new and improved website. We are sharing our message. And last but not least, we are considering our global environment. What is out there, yet to be learned, about the cause for obesity? How can we make the world a better place for obese adults and children, and how can we increase our own sensitivity and that of others toward patients who have such significant needs? What do we know and need to know about continuing competence, surgical procedures, excellence in practice, and the newest technology? There is more to be known than has ever been known to date!
Come and share with all your colleagues the growing global experience and understanding of obesity. Remember how important it is to meet and greet those who understand the very special population of patients whose quality of life and healthcare are so important to us. Remember as a specialty we address everything from safe movement to wound and skin care, childhood quality of life, to the relationship between obesity and breast disease. New speakers will broaden our understanding and the posters abstracts are expanding sources for value-added conference attendance.
I have written before that all of us pursue those things and activities that have special meaning to us. I believe through our commitment to patients with obesity in practice, research, education, and policy we will enhance the care, safety, quality, and lives of those who suffer all aspects of obesity and comorbid conditions.
In closing, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve NABN as president, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Corporate Council, and Dixie Friend in our home office in Greenville, NC, I invite you to get ready and gear up for our annual conference. Consider the questions you have for the fantastic variety of experts we will have in attendance. Reflect on the history of obesity surgery and what it has helped accomplish in our understanding of patient care, as well as for education, research, and practice opportunities now and in the future. Make your plans early and break out your dancing boots. Nashville, here we come: Conference 2011!