Reflecting on this day, I feel proud to be President of a society that promotes opportunities for friendship and shared learning for both general paediatricians and paediatric subspecialists, and that brings together such a diversity of experience within the room, from medical studies to retired colleagues and friends.
It truly feels to me as if we are nurturing our future workforce whilst respecting the dedication and achievements of those who have come before us.
The format of the day included medical student and trainee research/audit followed by case presentations, which were all delivered to such a high standard. Picking one prize winner in each category was certainly challenging for those involved.
We were also delighted to have Dr Lucy Reynolds join us to speak of what we, as paediatricians are doing about air pollution and climate change for our patients and children. Professor Steve Turner, RCPCH President updated us on college activities in his usual engaging manner and Professor Jon Stone delivered a fascinating guest lecture on functional neurological disorders in young people, past present and future.
We allowed ourselves a quiet moment of reflection as Dr Rosie Hague, our retiring President paid tribute to Dr Malcolm Donaldson who sadly passed away last year after a short illness. He would have been proud of you, Rosie and I expect would have laughed at us joining you in song as you played on your guitar. I know that Malcolm meant a great deal to such a lot of us and on a personal note I shall be eternally grateful for everything he has done for me. He was a perfect role model and I miss him very much.
Lastly but by no means least, I would like to thank the organising SPS committee, in particular our fabulous secretary, Lana O’Hara, for all of the work done quietly behind the scenes to make this day such a success.
Dr Darren Cameron
Dr Rosie Hague, Outgoing SPS President, Tribute to Dr Malcolm Donaldson
Dr Sophia White, Winner of the Scientific Presentation / Oman Craig Prize
Dr Dave Gardiner, Winner of the Case Presentation Prize
Professor Steve Turner, RCPCH President
Dr James Thyng