| Dear CVSA families,
It is hard to believe, that it was 15 years ago that I found a diagnosis of CVS for my daughter Mollie who had been struggling with this mysterious illness undiagnosed for 11 years. What initially started out in 1993 as an effort to seek support in my pursuit, has grown into a large group of determined members, medical professionals and volunteers. This year, yet again, we have made major inroads. CVSA has facilitated another major increase in awareness among the medical community through our advisors’ presentations and our presence at scientific meetings. CVSA has made a renewed commitment to supporting research efforts. Several research studies are underway—through research we will find a cure.
Your 2006 membership contribution has helped CVS accomplish the following:
- Support of the research of Dr. Richard Boles, geneticist at University of Southern California – investigation into the connection between CVS and mitochondrial disease. This includes participation of CVSA members. Several other research projects are in the initial stages.
- Near completion of North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition Guidelines for Pediatric Diagnosis & Treatment of CVS – an international guideline to be published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition in 2007. This will serve well to standardize our children’s care and offer guidance to physicians caring for adults as well.
- Major scientific focus meeting on CVS in Adults and two scientific symposia on CVS in Adults at the American Motility Society and the American College Gastroenterology Annual Meeting. Summary of these meetings to be published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility journal
- Collaboration with to two, soon to be three, CVS Centers for patient treatment for education and support
- Nearly 2000 outreach calls/emails for support and information about CVS
- Assistance to local CVS support groups
This year, more than ever we need your financial contribution to continue our efforts. Our plans for 2007 include funding more research,
and continuing to raise awareness in the medical
community so that people do not have to suffer years
before getting a diagnosis and the proper treatment. We
also intend to get more members involved in all areas of CVSA. Through these steps we will continue our mission to raise awareness and provide education and support to those affected by cyclic vomiting, abdominal migraine and related disorders while advocating for and funding research. Your continued support is critical to helping us attain these goals.
We have raised our membership fees only twice in the past 13 years. Our Board of Directors has decided to increase our Full-Priced Membership from $35 per year to $75 per year (or $130 for two years). As in the past, additional contributions are always welcome. The entire amount of these donations is tax deductible. We understand, however, that CVS and related disorders may make it difficult for many of our members to afford this increase. As a result, we are continuing to offer a Discounted Membership for $35 per year which is still fully tax deductible.
Grateful for your ongoing support for our efforts on your behalf,
Kathleen Adams
President and Research Liaison CVSA |
