I had the wonderful privilege to attend and present my research at the 28th Annual Congress of the World Muscle Society (WMS), which was hosted in Charleston, USA (3-7 October, 2023). This opportunity was made possible through a fellowship sponsored by the WMS to support early career researchers and, in particular, attendees from low- and middle-income countries. The congress included a plethora of oral presentations and posters related to neuromuscular disorders (NMD), including the latest trends and research in the field. Approximately 1 000 delegates attended in person, while more than 200 joined us online. As a paediatric physiotherapy lecturer of the University of Pretoria, I was particularly appreciative of the networking opportunities at this congress, which makes it possible for industry, clinicians and researchers to collaborate across the globe. The presentations on recent research and development in diagnostics, clinical presentation and management strategies in NMD were of great value.
I was honoured to be included in the prize-giving committee this year, as the first representative from Africa in the history of this congress. This was an amazing learning curve for me! I am looking forward to building on this experience and being part of the committee in 2024 again. At the congress I met two colleagues from South Africa as well as international experts, industry and patient advocacy groups with the same passion and drive for making the world a better place, taking hands and being stronger together. I cannot wait to implement the new skills learned and new approaches in clinical practice, at the NMD clinic and in research, and to share them with others through teaching and workshops. Friendships and relationships were forged during this congress that will take us to the next level, in particular for South Africa and those living with NMD. Future research, support, collaborations and clinical projects are in the pipeline … so watch this space!
Fortunately, my new (and old) friends and I also had a chance to explore the beautiful city of Charleston and experience traditional South Carolina cuisine. An unforgettable experience indeed!
We are excited about meeting again for the 29th WMS congress in Prague next year and building on what was started this year.