Sandy Cowie, INPDA President (Christmas Message 2020)

The INPDA Central Office is winding down for the festive break, and is set to reopen again on Monday the 4^th January 2021. To mark the end of this year we are pleased to share the following message from our President, Sandy Cowie:

Whilst 2020 has brought unprecedented changes and challenges for us all, we have learned through our shared experiences that it is not nearly as overwhelming if we are not travelling this path alone and I am thankful for the continuing interaction, support and friendship of INPDA members.

Despite the issue of COVID, there has been encouraging signs from clinical trials, increasing research opportunities and awareness campaigns spanning the globe, plus digital conferences from our member groups which brought us all together to progress our shared goal.

I am incredibly proud of the work each and every one of our member groups, particularly during this challenging year. It is a testament to your resolve that you have been able to continue work on behalf of the communities you support, that we have been able to come together virtually and to ensure progress in Niemann-Pick diseases continues.

I am hoping for more positive days in 2021 and perhaps even in-person meetings. One can dream! Until then I would encourage you to use this time to catch breath, reflect on the highs and lows of this year, and look ahead to what next year could hold.

Whilst Christmas can be an incredibly joyous time, it can also be bittersweet for many members of our global community. I hope you find peace and comfort in your memories, in the love of those around you and in the friendship we all experience as part of the INPDA.

With my warmest wishes to you all,

Sandy

INPDA President