Author
Hans Frankl, as appeared in Alpha1 Journal 2/2025.
Guest report by Hans Frankl SHG – Head of Styria, Austria
It's always a pleasure to attend the German Alpha1 group leader meeting. This year was no exception, taking place from October 10th to 12th, 2025 in Frankfurt. I found it particularly refreshing that the introductions and program briefing on Friday were held outdoors in the park, including some energizing exercises, true to the motto "Fresh air and exercise are good for us all!"„
On the way back to the hotel, we were able to have a constructive exchange about the topics we expected to cover the next day. Saturday's program was very intensive and, above all, constructive. During the lecture and workshop on 'Communication in Difficult Situations' by speaker Florian Czieschinski, MA, participants worked in groups to develop strategies for finding solutions to the issues. There was intensive discussion, followed by presentations.
The afternoon was entirely dedicated to the theme "SHG active". In particular, Katrin Fell's keynote speech informed us about the "Diseases Run" and motivated us to participate next year and to find other participants who would like to join this worthy cause.
All the topics of the day focused on supporting patients, for whom we advocate in the respective self-help groups, both nationally and now internationally within the "Alpha1 Europe Alliance." The positive atmosphere and momentum were clearly palpable among the team and the board. Our goal is to ensure that patients with respiratory and liver problems are tested for ALPHA1 as early as possible.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the group leaders and the board of Alpha1 Germany once again for the invitation and the excellent cooperation, true to the motto:
Never start to stop – never start to stop.
Best regards
Hans Frankl
