Monday, 10 October 2011

Autumn update

How was your Summer? We didn't have the very hot temperatures they experienced in the south of the UK - so that's OK. I shall try and be more diligent in blog writing - I have decided to retire from clinical work at Christmas so will have much more time after that (pigs may fly). Even though I had my consultation with the neurosurgeon back in mid June, the estimated surgery date is the end of March 2012. I could, though, be offered a last minute cancellation at Christmas or New Year - so here's hoping.
Several months ago I was asked to give a 3 day workshop on using acupressure in treating musculo-skeletal conditions in Lincoln. I was assured that there was a lot of interest and I could expect 12-14 people. I confidently booked the trains and hotels. Last week I was told that as funding was not forthcoming there were only 4 attending (and only 3 paying). I am not a greedy person and teach for the love of it, certainly not for financial gain, but I would have lost money. I draw the line at that. It seems to me that many practitioners depend on funding for courses, as money is obviously tight these days. I cannot recoup the train fare - so I have put it down to one of life's experiences.
Contrast that with a 5 day workshop next month in Solihull. This pro rata costs more money and I have no local delegates. Folks are travelling from Rumania, New York, Scotland and many distant regions of the UK. Although I award CPD, they will not be able get funding. When I first qualified as an acupuncturist I couldn't get enough training and education. I travelled everywhere just to learn new methods and techniques. It probably cost a fortune and I had to go without other things. You cannot put a price on education - it is priceless. Even though a course may seemingly cost a small fortune (after travel and accommodation are added), what you learn could be life changing! I pride myself that I offer exhaustive training and I know that scores of delegates have had their practices transformed by what they have learnt. Of course it is a big gamble going on any course - it may be rubbish!! I'll write again soon - JRC

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