SUPPORTING THE INOCA SUMMIT 2024 – A CALL TO ACTION
As a functional medicine practice that is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of patients with heart conditions, we are compelled to share the vital work of INOCA International, an organisation dedicated to supporting those affected by Ischaemia with Non-Obstructed Coronary Arteries (INOCA). This little-known condition presents a significant challenge, not only in diagnosis but also in understanding and managing its effects on patients’ lives.
What is INOCA?
INOCA is an umbrella term that encompasses various conditions characterised by reduced or restricted blood supply to the heart muscle, which can occur even in the absence of blockages or plaque in the large coronary arteries. Many individuals living with INOCA experience debilitating symptoms that can mimic those of angina, yet for too long, these were misattributed solely to larger arterial blockages. The growing recognition that microcirculation issues can also impede blood flow is crucial in guiding more effective treatment options.
Living with INOCA can often mean navigating a healthcare system that doesn’t yet fully understand or recognise the intricacies of this condition. Many patients find themselves on a long and winding road, seeking answers and relief in a world that can seem indifferent to their plight. This is where INOCA International steps in: a patient partnership that empowers individuals and medical professionals alike to foster a deeper understanding of these conditions and advocate for better care.
The INOCA Summit 2024: A Gathering of Hope
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming INOCA Summit 2024, taking place this September in London. This summit is not merely a conference; it is a beacon of hope. It brings together healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients from around the globe to share knowledge, experiences, and breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of INOCA.
However, this year, the INOCA International Team face a significant challenge. A major funder has withdrawn their support, leaving a pressing financial shortfall. Lisa Owens, a courageous patient living with INOCA and a member of our international team, has taken the initiative alongside her husband to establish a GoFundMe page to raise the £6,000 needed to ensure the success of this summit. So far, they have managed to raise over £2,000 which is fantastic – but we need your help to bridge the gap.
At the Dr Indra Practice, we have proudly supported INOCA for the past four years. Our very own Dr Ailsa Care serves on their medical advisory board, working tirelessly to improve care standards for INOCA patients. The summit will serve as a platform not only for medical professionals to advance their understanding but also as a sanctuary for patients to share their stories, forge connections, and uplift one another.
How You Can Help
If you are moved by this cause, we urge you to consider donating to the INOCA GoFundMe page. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference and brings us one step closer to our goal. Alternatively, you can also donate via the INOCA PayPal page.
However, we understand that not everyone may be in a position to contribute financially. If that is the case, please consider liking and sharing this post. Spreading the word about INOCA can help raise awareness about this often-overlooked disease, ensuring that more patients receive the support and understanding they deserve.
So, let us come together as a community—patients, families, healthcare professionals, and advocates—to support the INOCA Summit 2024. By doing so, we are not just supporting a conference; we are investing in the future of patient care, understanding, and connection. Together, we can shine a light on the path for those navigating the complexities of INOCA, helping to transform fear into hope and isolation into community.