Dear Parents,

October 6, 2009 Hello, It is always a very busy time for families as we enter into a new school year.

For me it is a transitional year as our twelve year old, William, entered middle school. He looked at me one day as we were considering our school options and clearly stated, "Mom, don't worry, I'm growing up." As he walked proudly into "his" special classroom with eight peers he was confident, eager and ready for the school year to begin. Our PWS children, like our typical kids, have many talents. It is wonderful to watch their personalities develop and their strengths emerge.

It has also been a very busy, productive and meaningful time for our chapter. In May, thanks to the single-handed efforts of Jarrod and Cindy Wells, the chapter was proud to sponsor a PWS-NE Walkathon. It was an enormously successful fundraiser and equally brought valuable recognition to this uncommon syndrome appropriately during PWS Awareness month. We are indebted to the Wells family!

Just this past weekend, another parent Pam Katsiris, organized a Casino Night which allowed parents the rare opportunity to get together socially and again raise money and awareness for Prader-Willi Syndrome. Thank you Pam!

In less than two weeks The Latham Center in Brewster MA will sponsor a PWS conference for families, providers & educators titled "Strengthening Connections."

While conferences have been cancelled elsewhere, we are fortunate to be offered one in New England. Attendees will hear from nationally recognized clinicians Drs Forster, MD & Gourash MD, and Dr.BJ Goff, PhD on many key PWS management issues.

I am lucky to know the wonderful and generous parents who give their precious time and talents to benefit PWSA-NE.

I know these people because of William, and yes, I know these people because of PWS. I wouldn't have it any other way!

Enjoy the fall foliage and be well,

Eileen Rullo

PWSA-NE, President