from the editor

An Active Society

By Sean Flack, MBChB, FCA
SPA News Editor

As I review the contents for this newsletter, I’m struck by how busy and active our Society is right now. It’s an exciting time to be a member; opportunities for advancing SPA’s mission abound. Dr Flick, in his President’s Message, lists a number of critical activities and projects that have recently launched. They will have profound impacts upon the society in the years ahead. I hope that as you read about them, you too will be excited about being a member of SPA and motivated to contribute to its success. After all, a successful society is one that is engaging with its members, making full use of its member’s skills and interests and meeting its member’s needs.

The other articles in the newsletter provide further insights into the many contributions members are making with SPA’s support. You can read about anesthesia education in lower and middle income countries, research to improve perioperative care in children and research mentorship.

Collaboration between SPA and AAP continues to flourish. In his update, Dr. Brown (Chair, Section on Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The American Academy of Pediatrics), correctly states, “a rising tide raises all ships.” Once again, I’m excited for the synergy that is evident when leaders from SPA and AAP engage together.

I hope this newsletter excites you and gives you impetus to be an active and engaged member of SPA. Your talents and passions are valuable to the Society. As our Annual Meeting approaches, consider joining a committee or a Special Interest Group. Submit a PBLD, abstract or workshop proposal when those opportunities arise. Donate to the Patient Safety Education & Research Fund

Lastly, if you have ideas for improving the newsletter, please let me know. My email is sean.flack@seattlechildrens.org.

Otherwise, I look forward to seeing you in San Francisco for our Annual Meeting on October 12.