From the Top: A Dream Realized

  In 1995, the dream of a group of visionaries was realized when they formed a multidisciplinary organization and the Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC) was born. As we approach our 20th Anniversary in 2015, I am proud to announce our Association has grown to nearly 2,300 members. This represents 65% growth in just over 3 years.

  The AAWC has continued to be sensitive to the economic challenges affecting its members. Among our many accommodations is the decrease in annual dues. We have continued our reduced rate of more than 20% from years ago for clinician/individual members. Our rates for students and retirees remain modest, and we pay tribute to our veterans and military health care personnel by offering half-priced dues. This has allowed many professionals to be able to attend SAWC Spring and Fall conferences and earn much needed credits, using the membership discount on registration to save even more money. As always, membership for patients and their lay-caregivers, as well as any layperson advocate, is free for life, and many educational and informational offerings apply. Please share this information with your patients and their families.

  With the help of our dedicated volunteers, partners, and staff, the Association has provided new incentives and programs, enhanced communication, and additional benefits. As you read through this issue of OWM, you will understand why the AAWC prides itself on having something for everyone. If you ask a long-time member why he/she has stayed with AAWC (even after retirement), often his/her reasons include not only the savings, networking, programs or benefits, but also the ability to give back and feel at home. Many members refer to the AAWC as their “wound care family.” With nearly 16 years of experience with the Association, this is my home as well. It is an honor to be AAWC’s Executive Director.

  On a final note: never underestimate the difference you make as one individual within the wound care community. I’ve found that wound care professionals are among the most compassionate, caring, and motivated of people. You provide hope and vision to the profession where it is most needed. Whether you are a health care provider, life-long learner, dedicated teacher, proactive person with a wound, generous lay-caregiver, inspirational mentor, eager researcher, steadfast volunteer, or all of these, your passion is undeniable. We encourage you to join and spread the word about AAWC and recruit others to support our cause.

  I offer much deserved recognition and appreciation to our Board Members, volunteers, staff, collaborating organizations, and corporate partners for their abundant contributions to our success. Thank you, all, for perpetuating the dream.

This article was not subject to the Ostomy Wound Management peer-review process.