Alpha-1 Association

May 2009

		03/24/2009 Busm Researchers Identify Gene Variant Associated With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease continued... 03/26/2009 Alphas, others to testify for Minnesota bill assuring care for patients requiring plasma protein therapies continued... 02/4/2009 COPD Foundation Establishes Hotline for Oxygen Complaints continued... 01/15/2009 Medicare Consumer Report � Information on how Medicare pays for oxygen continued...

The Alpha-1 Association is a member-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to identifying those affected by Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1) and to improve the quality of their lives through support, education, advocacy and to encourage participation in research. Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1) is a genetic disorder that can cause liver and lung disease in children and adults.

H1N1 flu (swine flu)– Cause for Concern, No Reason for Panic The H1N1 flu pandemic is of concern to the Alpha-1 Association; however, it is no reason for panic. The Association is still moving forward as planned to host the 18th Annual National Education Conference in San Francisco. After consultation with several Alpha-1 doctors, Marlene Erven, Executive Director, stated “It is too early to make any decision regarding any significant changes or plans regarding the conference.” The Association is monitoring the situation closely and we will notify the community if there are any changes . We suggest you visit the World Health Organization’s website, www.who.int or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Dr. Robert Sandhaus has issued a statement for the Alpha community. Please click here to view his comments under News Flash. National Education Conference Update Alpha-1 Kids is offering scholarships to parents of Alpha-1 children to attend the National Education Conference for the first time. Please contact Cathey Horsak at chorsak@alpha1.org or 877-346-3212. The Hyatt and Marriott San Francisco Airport Hotels are currently sold out. We have established a room block with the Crowne Plaza Hotel. There will be a shuttle provided. Crowne Plaza San Francisco Airport 1177 Airport Blvd San Francisco, CA 94010 800-411-7275 Room Rates: $105 per night plus tax Group Code: Alpha-1 Association Deadline for Discounted Room Rate: May 22, 2009		May 9 2009, 10:00am 2nd Annual G. W. Bridge Walk more... May 9 2009, 11:00am West Penn Z's Support Group Meeting more... May 9 2009, 2:00pm Montana Support Group Meeting more... May 16 2009, 2:00pm Lone Star of North Texas Alphas Support Group Meeting more... June 5 2009, 6:00pm Annual National Education Conference more...