A strong delegation of 9 people from South Africa attended the 10th World Congress. The two scientific delegates were Professor Trevor Carmichael, Ophthalmology, Wits, Johannesburg and Professor Raj Ramesar, Human Genetics, UCT, Cape Town; representing the South African Foundation at the 35 country strong General Assembly were Gordon Cousins, National Chairman and Claudette Medefindt, National Secretary. Gordon Cousins was re-elected to the International Management Committee.

Gail Cillie, Chairman of the East Cape RP Foundation and National Vice-Chairman, was sponsored by Italtile and attended her first ever World Congress outside South Africa. "I felt very proud to be a part of the South African delegation and especially to see what a vital role our official delegates play in the International Body. This Congress has charged my batteries - I am enthused to go home and work harder for the RP movement".

Sister Lecia Bartmann, our Genetics Nurse at the University of Cape Town, said "I enjoyed the Congress immensely. The research information was wonderful but perhaps creative workshops could have been included covering the following aspects: motivation, fund raising, reaching the community and public awareness. A basic lecture on the anatomy of the eye would give front line workers a basic knowledge and understanding of retinal diseases". Lorna and Bob Bristol and Robert Kershaw were the remaining three delegates.

Note: For a copy of the conference abstracts (46 pages), please send your name and address and R15.00 for copying and postage.