Budapest blog


I have just returned from the EC meeting in Budapest. Whatever the guide books say about the origins of the city’s name (Buda and Pest etc.) I believe the true origin must be ‘Hot Oven’ as the temperature was in the 40s during our stay! I decided this was outside my functional temperature zone, as I wilted during supper on Saturday night. It was a relief to return to 17 degrees in Luton airport.
If only it would stop raining………………….I am seriously thinking I should build an ark.
ESAM is grateful to Dr. Imre Melles, head of the Hungarian Aviation Shipping and Maritime Medical Centre for allowing the use of their facilities.
The committee worked hard, and completed the business on Saturday. We all missed Elena Cataman, who was unable to attend (for the first time ever!) but we sent her hugs and kisses to compensate. Gabor Hardicay joined part of the meeting to discuss the election of the EC which takes place this year. It will be an electronic vote, held in October, with the new EC introduced at the General Assembly on November 11th. All the details will be sent directly to member societies, and appear on this site. I will post a separate blog ‘EC for the terrified’ giving an informative but light hearted account of what to expect. It’s a serious business but is also fun to be part of.
Preparations for ECAM2012 and the General Assembly were discussed. We have had a lot of registrations to date, but a long way short of the target number. No matter how good the speakers and the presentations are, the conference will not be a success unless YOU are there. We really need to demonstrate that there is enough enthusiasm and commitment in Europe to have its own Aerospace Medicine conference. We have extended the deadline for ‘early bird’ discount until 31st July, and that for submission of abstracts to 31st August. Don’t forget that if your abstract is chosen for presentation, you are eligible for assistance with travel expenses from ESAM. The meeting has been approved for 12 hours of Continuing Medical Education credit.
And finally….please keep a close eye on the website over the next few months as there will be lots of information posted. If you are the designated contact for your organisation then please ensure that ESAM has your up to date contact details. Protect the conference committee from insomnia…..register NOW.
Kevin