There are many times we are reminded just how difficult it can be in the heart community: visits to hospitals, clinics, GP’s; fighting with schools, clubs & professionals and being in a room of people who simply don’t understand. We are reminded because you - ECHO members - tell us. You help each other through the difficult days and I am always surprised at how supportive people can be when they are themselves dealing with so much. 2015 has been amazing. I've been fortunate to meet so many members, I've been to some lovely coffee mornings held by regional volunteers, attended focus groups with parents and even slept in tents whilst camping with young people. These events helped me to deliver opportunities that you asked for. The ECHO Summer Day transformed from a conference to an activity day in response to your needs and it saw us turning a football club into a fairground. We are looking forward to providing more fun and opportunities for all members in 2016. Our proudest achievement of 2015 has been the development of ECHO’s three-year strategy. I will be sharing this with you early next year, the team are looking forward to supporting more families in ways you have asked us to. Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone, regardless of your faith or beliefs. However, we do hope that you enjoy the festive period and the time it gives you to reflect on the past year and plan for the next one. We are thinking of all ECHO members over Christmas and look forward to working
with you in 2016. Samantha Johnson, Director of Operations, ECHO
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