[Debbie L.]

Hi Paula and all. You freaked me out with the "next week" subject title. NO! It's not quite that soon, phew. I'm so not ready, although very much looking forward to SABCS as usual. Over the years, I've become less starry-eyed about the promise but still it's hard not to get caught up in the energy of so many brilliant minds trying to figure out this very complex puzzle. Somewhat balancing my growing cynicism is the increasing enjoyment of gathering with old friends and making new ones each year.

It seems like there's just one shuttle from the airport, I don't remember having to choose. Just buy the ticket outside in the taxi area and board the shuttle.

We usually do not eat out except one evening. Between the food at poster sessions (most mornings and evenings), at the mentor sessions, and then at the satellite presentations, lunch is the only time there is not food served to all (but there's food available to buy).

Chris, I am sad to hear you won't be there. I keep pointing out to my mobility-limited friend that each year there are more people on those little scooters. I don't know if the convention center rents them or the people make private arrangements, but it seems like such a great way to cover all that ground.

Weather can be surprisingly cold, one year the freeway was closed for a bit because of ice! But typically it's not super cold, nor super wet. If it's windy, the walk from hotel and/or to events at other hotels can be chilly. Or maybe it will be one of those balmy years. There is a coat check place I think, although I've never used it.

I look forward to some time together as a HER2 group. I probably cannot make it to things that last past the regular mentor session in the evening, as I'm staying outside of downtown with friends and we're sharing a car. But anything we can squeeze in during the normal convention hours (including the satellites on Wed. and Thurs.) will work for me.

Debbie