Dear ICNA colleagues,

ICNC2022 is fast approaching. The location in Antalya, Turkey is superb both for the beauty and historical significance of the region, and the excellence of the conference venue. The scientific content will surpass your greatest expectations thanks to the dedicated and innovative planning by scientific co-chairs Ingrid Tein and Haluk Topaloglu and their international committee. There will be opportunities to meet your international colleagues as well as to build on and form new networks.

These statements are based on the careful site visits coordinated by the host association, the Turkish Child Neurology Association (TCNA), to vet the venue, and the meticulous preparation and attention to detail into every aspect of the program led by the scientific committee. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on many of our lives and practices.

The demands on health care have inevitably drawn our focus away from child neurology and child health in general. The ramification of the disruption to child health will be seen for years to come. Early intervention programs have become disrupted (e.g. measles vaccination, hearing screens), delayed presentation of children with neurological diseases and interruption of standard care for many of our patients, to name a few of the consequences of this pandemic.

The impact on health care facilities and the staff within, cannot be measured in numbers alone. The pandemic has pushed us to innovate new ways to rise above the obstructions it has created. Without training, education and research we will stagnate and fail to evolve to offer optimal care for our patients. The biannual ICNA congresses, and the education programs coordinated through the ICNA, as well as the newly roll-out International Child Neurology Teaching Network, are a vital part of this education. Enabling clinicians to present and debate their research and best care practices at an international level is essential to maintain a global approach to health care.

Together we are stronger. This will be your opportunity to “Reset Yourself”. You can be assured that the ICNC2022 will meet all participant expectations and that the experience from attending the congress will leave them replete and inspired by the knowledge gained.

ICNA and TCNA are looking forward to greeting you at the 17th ICNC Stay safe ICNA colleagues, vaccinate and wear your masks!

Jo Wilmshurst
President ICNA