Welcome to the inaugural issue of Chiari & Syringomyelia News!

There are many people who are affected by these diseases and this newsletter will strive to be a resource for as many of them as possible.  Our first issue reflects this with research updates covering pediatric surgery, post-traumatic syrinx formation, and Chiari symptoms.  In the Spotlight this month is Dr. Marcy Speer, a genetic researcher at Duke University, who shares her views on a variety of interesting topics.  The Daily Living feature offers a look at the ins and outs of the neurological exam - something many of our readers have experienced - and I think you will find the Perspectives column a touching look into the life of a strong woman who recently had surgery.

The goal of Chiari & Syringomyelia News is to provide timely, relevant information in an easy to understand format.  I strongly believe that those affected by these conditions need to take an active role in dealing with them - both medically and otherwise - and I hope this newsletter will provide some of the knowledge necessary to help people do just that.  The site in general, and the overview presentation in particular, have already generated a tremendous response and I thank everyone for their feedback.

I'd also like to thank those who participated in the Sounding Board topic and encourage everyone to let people know what you think via the Sounding Board or Letters to the Editor.  Your participation, through these forums and submissions to You Gotta Laugh! and Perspectives, will help bring our community together through a sharing of ideas, stories, and laughter.

I hope you enjoy reading the newsletter as much as I enjoyed putting it together.  See you next month!

-Rick Labuda