When we asked members last year to tell us why they belonged to the MCH Section, they often replied that it was like family – a home within APHA. It certainly felt that way for me this season!

First there were the births, including Student Fellow Jen Breaux’s son, who came early and prevented her from joining us in Philly, even though she was part of the local host committee! Then the illnesses: Secretary Karen VanLandeghem could not join us because her son had H1N1, as did Adolescent Committee Co-chair Michele Kelly. And finally, the deaths: Child Health Chair Marianne Hillemeier’s mom died right before the Annual Meeting, while my own mom hung on for another month and died shortly thereafter, followed by Senior Fellow Lianne Estefan’s dad and Program Chair Ann Dozier’s mom.  Finally, our dear colleague and Breastfeeding Committee Chair Mary Rose Tully. What is constant during this season was the caring notes of congratulations or condolence, the donations and the tributes, and the willingness to step in and cover for each other. It is being with each other through personal tribulations as well as political administrations that makes our work together so satisfying. We also get to celebrate professional and personal accomplishments and joys. Working together year after year develops our collegial relationships and creates wonderful opportunities for support and camaraderie. I urge you to show up, again and again. Volunteer to take on some Section work and responsibility. Before you know it you will find that you will have a home within APHA and connection with colleagues who are as passionate about MCH as you are and some who have become dear friends.

Join us Nov. 6-10 at the Annual Meeting in Denver, where we will have some time to get to know one another. The Host Committee, including Marilyn Krajicek, Eusa Patt, and Karen Peifer, is already working to plan a Section social event on Saturday night and to recommend interesting things to do while in Denver. See you there!

JoAnne Fischer

MCH Section Chair