Dianne, first, here's a hug {{{Diane}}}. If I were you I would cancel with a
full explanation to the person who made all the arrangements. These are
never easy decisions but the cost of speaking may be too dear. You will only
be stepping into muddy water--and who can tell how deep?

I recently sent a letter to a large Harvard teaching hospital in my area
explaining why I cannot attend their upcoming conference. They are having
their annual neonatology nursing conference--this year's program addresses
alternative therapies in neonatal care. It is also a cruise of Boston
harbor--with dinner, etc.--so I initially thought it sounded interesting.
Then I saw the not-so-small print that the conference will be partially
sponsored by a grant from a large formula company. :-(  I studied the names
of the presenters, thinking about their areas of expertise and what I
might've learned from them. I can tell you one thing--I would be very
disappointed if there was an LC presenting, given the sponsorship. I'm
considering writing to each of the presenters, explaining why I did not
attend the conference.

BTW: sounds like *all of us* need to put our conditions about sponsorship in
writing before we agree to speak anywhere (no matter how small).

You are such a wonderful spokesperson for lactation consultants. Your
writing is clear and powerful--so I imagine your presentations are, as well.
Don't dilute your reputation. Cancel.


Easy for me to say, of course, since I'm here...

Margery Wilson, IBCLC