Author
Marion Wilkens, Alpha1 Germany eV, as published in Alpha1 Journal 2/2021.
Dear Alphas, dear family members and dear Alpha1 enthusiasts, or simply put: dear readers,
But nothing is easy right now: planning an anniversary, canceling an anniversary, planning and canceling group leader meetings – not just the wasted time, but the passion that goes into it, that makes it so difficult.
Even without event preparations, we're all extremely busy, as many are working from home and have time to think about projects that Alpha1 Germany can/should/may participate in. But we're not complaining; it's great that a pandemic brings us much closer together. When your conversation partner is wearing a comfy sweater instead of a suit, the conversation simply flows more easily.
But no, I swear, I've never conducted a conference in my pajamas! Visiting colleagues in America or Europe now only takes an hour, not a day's travel. Not to mention the financial benefits and the improved carbon footprint. And yet, I miss seeing you all in person, not in the virtual world.
I believe in science and research; they will find a solution for COVID-19 and one day for Alpha-1 as well. Read about some new research findings in this issue, as well as the results of wonderful new and existing collaborations (page 22 about James Lind Care, page 11 about the new youth flyer, and page 12 about news from Aachen).
Despite all the adversity, we have grown much closer together and look forward to an exciting year 2022 together on the board, with our advisory boards, with our scientific advisory boards, with the self-help groups, with the Alpha-1 centers, the Respiratory League, the pharmaceutical companies that support us and the many people with whom it is simply fun to work!
Thank you all and I wish you a wonderful start to 2022!
