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Message from the Chief Executive

Wow! What a couple of months it has been with lots of new developments taking seed. Since my first "official engagement" as CEO at the coffee morning on the 8th May, I have been enjoying many diverse activities as part of our modernisation initiative. I've had my eyes opened to lots of different things I had never experienced before; I've entered the world of the graphic designer as I worked with Paul at Think Plus Ink, the Leicester based agency providing a free design service in order to develop our identity and newsletter. I have considered domains, hosting sites, links, cookies (sadly not the chocolate variety!) and hits as I have worked with Noel who has completely re-designed our web site. I've become a mini journalist as I have written press releases, booked bands to support future fundraising events and even spoken to complete strangers I meet in the street about the debilitating nature of reflux (I think my enthusiasm to get the message across may have caused some people to be concerned for my welfare!). My attempts to understand more about reflux, through reading and speaking to sufferers and their families, has highlighted the dramatic impact this disease can have. I'm acutely aware of the need for a support group which is responsive to patient needs, provides appropriate guidance and support and is able to act as an advocate for all reflux sufferers. So although the re-launch is very exciting, this is only the beginning; we still have a way to go to fulfil our aspirations to be the most effective support group for those living with reflux and their families.

It really is vital that your voice is heard so that we represent your views and provide a forum which meets your needs. I'm hoping that many of you will take up my invitation to share your views, perhaps by writing a letter or an article for publication in the newsletter, or to become actively involved, perhaps by volunteering to get involved in the development of regional support groups or hosting a fundraising event. Whatever it is I look forward to hearing from you.

Just before I sign off, I'd like to say a huge thank you to Paul at Think Plus Ink and Noel at digitalMuse Ltd for their enthusiasm and hard work. The (almost impossible) deadlines I have given them and the frequent changes to content have been met by both with professionalism and a smile. The finished products in the newsletter and the website, I'm sure you will agree, are excellent and have got us off on a strong footing.

Sharon de Caestecker
Chief Executive, FORT

What you can expect from FORT in the future:

FORT is currently going through a major modernisation in order to meet the needs of patients, their families and professional carers.

• Processes are underway to ensure registered company and charity status.
• This website has recently received a makeover with further new features and sources of information added in the coming months. For example, a discussion forum will be the next exciting feature, enabling members to share their stories, tips and experiences.
• Regular patient/carer forums will be arranged offering members access to expert speakers with the opportunity for question and answer sessions.
• This newsletter will be produced four times per year, in March, June, September and December. In order to promote maximum accessibility it will be available in hard copy as well as an electronic version on the website.
• Regional support groups will be developed to ensure that members have good access to support and information regardless of where they live.
• Information leaflets will be developed to ensure that members have up to date and relevant information to promote coping strategies and improve quality of life.
• Regular updates on relevant clinical trials will keep members up to date with new and emerging findings of important research areas.

These are just a few of the exciting developments taking place. However it is vital that you, the members have your say in terms of what you want from FORT. Do contact us to let us know your views, give us your wish list (within reason!) and share your experiences. We look forward to hearing from you.