TSSUS is Like Family, and the Conference is Like Home - by Erica Melman

My name is Erica, and wow! Do I have a story for you about the TSSUS conferences. My first conference was back in 2011 in Buffalo, New York. I didn’t know what to expect and I decided to go with another friend who also lives here in Illinois. it was her first conference, too. We decided to be brave and see what it was all about.

We were able to get two other girls to room with us. I had never met the other two girls until the this trip. Well, let me tell you that was the most amazing experience - meeting those two roommates and experiencing my first Turner syndrome conference. It was life changing I have become lifelong friends with them. We talk all the time and make sure to get together periodically. Although I didn’t know what to expect sharing a room with girls I didn’t know, it was great. We share the same characteristics and some of the same challenges.  It was such a sisterhood that I will never forget. I am so thankful that I decided to go.

I have been going to TSSUS conferences ever since. It is something I will always cherish that I look forward to every year and just can’t imagine not doing as a part of my life. Turner syndrome is such an important part of me, but it’s not all of me. It is a chance for me to share my experience and to help others. What a great and life-changing event! Besides not knowing the two roommates I had at my first conference and them becoming great friends,  I also met friends and created other lifelong friendships that my husband and I look forward to every year.

After my first conference I immediately told my husband he needed to go because it wasn’t just for women or girls with TS . It’s also for their families and significant others to experience. The conference team makes everyone - and I mean everyone - feel so welcomed and cherished! You realize that you are not alone in this world.

The Turner syndrome Society of the United States is like my second family. The conference helps me embrace who I am and helps me learn how I can share TS with the community where I live and help those families and people dealing with the condition in a profound and impactful way.

Ever since that first conference and every conference afterward I have wanted to become involved and I did. I served on the TSSUS board, and I try to plan and keep the Society and it’s mission going with all of its meaning to the TS community.  Everyone working in the office -  Cindy, Deborah and Becky - and everyone involved like the volunteers, just make this event, which started out very small to what it is today!

I am so glad to be a part of it and will continue to be a part of this as long as I’m around! Thank you TSSUS for your impact on my life ever since the Buffalo conference back in 2011. I never look back. I always look forward to what we can do. All my love, and we are butterfly strong. I am butterfly strong