Author
Hans Frankl, SHG, Styria, Austria, as published in Alpha1 Journal 2/2023.
I, Johann Frankl, leader of the self-help group in Styria, Austria, was delighted to accept the invitation from our partner organization Alpha 1 Germany to the annual group leader meeting in Darmstadt. The aims were to exchange our experiences and develop perspectives for future projects in our respective self-help groups.
Even the preparation for the flight required consultation with my pulmonologist, as I, being an infrequent flyer, was unfamiliar with the process. Today, I can confidently say that even for lung patients (without oxygen requirements), flying should not be a problem after consultation with their respective doctor and, if necessary, with the airlines.
Until then, I only knew Marion Wilkens, the chairwoman of the German patient organization. I went to the meeting with a touch of apprehension. Even before the introductions, I received a warm welcome from like-minded individuals. Thank you for that. I was also able to actively contribute to the discussions on cross-border topics and participate in the subsequent, very interesting discussions. The points developed were divided into four groups for better organization and later presentation. The results of each group were discussed again in plenary session on day two and then presented to the entire board of Alpha1 Germany.
In summary, I can take away from the event that the topics and working methods are reflected in the self-help groups. Within the team and the board, the positive atmosphere and dynamic were clearly palpable, above all the shared desire to make a difference. Our goal is for patients with respiratory and liver problems to be tested for Alpha-1. As like-minded individuals, we want to be points of contact, guides, and companions for those diagnosed with Alpha-1 on their journey.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you once again for the invitation and the good cooperation with the group leaders and the board of Alpha1 Germany, true to the motto: Never stop starting – never start stopping.
Stay healthy and take care. Looking forward to seeing you again, best regards.
