Western New York Chapter

Our Chapter is the WNY (Western New York) Chapter and I am Janice Cifelli, the WNY Chapter Leader.

 

We cover the western region of upstate NY from Rochester west to Buffalo.

 

WNY Chapter is a new group and we have had only one formal meeting attended by just 2 patients and 8 caregivers.  Therefore, it is difficult to describe its personality at this time. 

 

I founded this chapter in May of 2008.  Prior to having a formal meeting, I was in one on one contact with several VF patients in my region.  I met people at restaurants as well as had phone conversations to discuss various issues surrounding our diseases.  I also dropped brochures off at patients' homes.

Our first and only meeting (so far) was held at a local hospital where I happen to be an employee.  We met on a Saturday morning around 10:30. The meeting lasted about an hour and a half.

Since I work as a medical professional (Registered Respiratory Therapist), I'm lucky to have great working relationships with doctors and other medical professionals from all areas of medicine.  I've already asked many of my professional contacts if they would be interested in being a guest speaker for our group.  My own vasculitis team of doctors has also agreed to speak.  No one has turned me down yet, so there is a great list of potential speakers to draw upon for future meetings!