#NASStweetup
Social media has done wonderful things for those with chronic illnesses. It helps people — who may otherwise be isolated — connect with others who share the same problems, who understand what it is others are going through, and know the challenges they face. Through platforms like Twitter patient groups have formed their own online communities and networks, which span worldwide, and are not confined to local areas as they once where before. Ankylosing Spondylitis is no exception. The chances are that if you are reading this, then you have most likely arrived to this article from clicking on a link on Facebook or Twitter. Social media can be a powerful thing. I for one am very thankful. It has helped me to connect with so many others, many of whom echo my “story”.
As fantastic as the online community is, sometimes it’s just nice to meet somebody in the flesh. Wouldn’t it be good if you could combine the two? Well you can! It’s called a Tweetup! And I am organising such a thing.
On the 21st of June, The National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS) will be holding it’s annual Members Day (formally called the “patient conference”). So I am hereby inviting anyone who tweets who is planning on attending the members day, to join me for the #NASStweetup. We will be meeting prior to the event registration, in the same building. There will also be refreshments (and cake!!) provided. Meeting as a group with a shared interest is a great ice-breaker, and meeting before the event will give you the chance to spend more time talking to other tweeters throughout the day. Of course tweeting throughout the Tweetup and throughout the day is very much encouraged!
Interested? Excellent. In order to ensure that there will be enough tea/coffee/cake to go around, it would be great if you can RSVP to show your interest in attending. You can do so by following this link to the Tweetup page. I will also post any updates there, as well as on Twitter.
If you have any questions about the Tweetup, need directions, or have any other questions, then please comment below. You can also contact me via twitter or email if preferred.