2008 Dakota Retreat - Casselton

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Dakotas Retreat 2008 – Our Youth Really Shined

This year our Dakotas family education retreat was held in Cassellton, North Dakota at the Governor’s Inn Hotel and Water-park. 85 people attended. This education event was held on Saturday, August 2^nd, beginning with lunch at 12 noon. Registration opened at 10:00 a.m. with time to visit exhibitor booths before lunch. Our education programming began at 1 p.m. with a presentation from HFMD.

Our medical panel featuring Dr. Nathan Kobrinsky, Kathy Kirkeby PA, and Erin Tobin RN. Dr. Kobrinsky shared a riveting presentation which included a historical background of hemophilia leading into contemporary treatment approaches. Then the panel opened the floor for Q & A. Our Dakota families took the opportunity to ask some very good questions. Following the medical panel, Mark Plencner RPh. and HFMD executive director Jim Paist led a panel discussion on patient advocacy. Mark gave an outstanding presentation on insurance and cost related issues associated with treating hemophilia. Jim presented on public policy advocacy emphasizing how people really can make a difference when they get involved.

One of the day’s highlights was our youth panel which truly captivated and impressed our audience. Each panelist shared such well-prepared and thoughtful presentations. Taylor and Morgan Wrey dazzled us by sharing their personal stories of excelling in sports as hemophiliacs. They closed their section showing an amazing video with highlights of the “bruise brothers” in action running track and field, playing basketball and baseball. Adam Pietrezewski spoke about his compelling experience playing high school football (running back) and setting a new school record for rushing yards in a season. It was inspirational to say the least. Carson Ouellette presented on his exciting experience going to Washington Days with his mother Sherri as they were a part of the HFMD delegation in March. As someone with interest in government and history, Carson’s passion was reflected in his outstanding presentation.

At the conclusion of our education programming, there was more time to visit exhibitors to learn more about the factor medication and services they offer. After dinner our group had the option of going to a local musical, an amusement park, or jumping in the pool at the hotel. The event ended after a buffet breakfast on Sunday morning. HFMD received some very positive feedback from attendees on the quality of the programming and the facility. The food was terrific at the Governors Inn! The event went so well because Bob Stone, Kathy Kirkeby, Courtenay Misheski and Pam Cella did such a good job of planning it. Months of meticulous planning went into this and it turned out well.