RE: Philadelphia, PA Contact Needed

April 22, 2004

Karyn;

Do you remember me, this is Annette Finocchiaro. and I would be glad

to represent Phila. We live 20 minutes away in Southern New Jersey.

will be going out to Minnesota in the next 4 weeks to have her total

pancreatectomy with auto islet cell transplant. Also, Dr. Sutherland gave

the name of a Dr. at University of Pennsylvania Hospital who will be

starting the same program there. has an appointment with Dr.

Markman in 2 weeks. Dr. Sutherland has spoken to him and he has agreed to

follow 's care here after she returns. Since coming back from the

symposium last August, has been in and out of the hospital at least 25

times. We all finally came to the conclusion that this is the best time to

perform the surgery. s practically lives at Children's Hospital of Phila.

Everytime that we are there, she speaks to someone about pancreatitis and give

them your website. She talks so well to the parents and comforts them as well

as the children. Also, I can't thank-you enough for putting me touch with Peg

Bates. We have become very close friends and rely on each other as a sounding

board and confidante. YOu couldn't have given me a better gift as a friend.

Also, I would like to be involved in the visiting program when it takes off.

Well, I have to go now, I am off to the surgeon to have my gall bladder removed

today. I have been putting it off for a couple of years and it has been acting

up lately. I don't want a bad attack and not be able to take care of .

Love always, Annette

Philadelphia, PA Contact Needed

I am searching for someone in the Philadelphia, PA area. Of course, if you

live in PA, please let me know, too. I believe we have a handful of folks from

the Pittsburgh, PA area, which is, unfortunately, on the other side of the

state.

But, I am sure you all remember how scary it is to have this diagnosis and

not know where to turn.

If you are available to extend a hand of support, share some local resources,

etc., please let me know.

Thanks,

Karyn E. , RN

Executive Director, PAI

Pancreatitis Association International

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