I have always enjoyed attending the the ASHT Annual Meeting as it creates a revival in my curiosity, enlightens me into avenues I never thought possible and ignites a fire within to keep pushing myself forward to be better. This year’s Annual Meeting is even more special to me as it is being held in my hometown. When I found out the meeting site would be St. Louis, I was so excited to bring the hand and upper extremity community here.
Even though the pandemic has provided challenges, the ASHT Annual Meeting continues to highlight many of the extraordinary professionals in the St. Louis area and around the country. This year's hybrid format makes meeting content accessible to all through the in-person and virtual experiences.
The meeting theme of equity, community and excellence is so relevant. Recent national and international events, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, have brought to light the need for equity in our practice. We are being pushed to be creative. The current climate has made us value the importance of our community of friends, colleagues and family, but we've demonstrated we are stronger than we think and can still be a community and support system from afar. Above all, we can still provide excellence in care. We have stepped out of the box, changed the norms and pushed our profession forward during these difficult times. We have been advocates for ourselves and what we uniquely provide our patients. I know for my own mental health, I need this Annual Meeting. I need the stimulation for my brain and I need all of you. The Annual Meeting Committee has worked hard to provide a stellar meeting and line up for all of you, and we hope you decide to join us at the Annual Meeting in some capacity, whether in person or virtually.