SAGES Magazine

THE SOUTH AFRICAN GASTROENTEROLOGY REVIEW 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 1 | 30 The second day began with a tough 5km walk/run (4km of uphill) which after being torrentially rained upon was no doubt invigorating for the day ahead. The program consisted of two intensive hepatology, general gastroenterology, inflammatory bowel disease and practical (endoscopy and ultrasound) skills sessions. As a new gastroenterology fellow, I personally found the practical endoscopy session hosted by Dr Lala and Professor Thompson to be one of the highlights of the weekend. The insights I acquired here will assist me greatly in making my own journey in attaining colonoscopy proficiency smoother. Each session was interactive, stimulating, and as such invaluable to be a part of. A South African journalist and author, Ms. Marianne Thamm, was the guest speaker and provided an insightful and optimistic message on the status and trajectory of our country’s past, present and future. She highlighted the good above the bad and ugly. There was constant flow of delicious snacks and beverages throughout and the intensity of the day ended with equally gratifying dinner and networking with new friends. The last day consisted of an interactive and challenging endoscopy quiz by Dr Galya Chinnery which provided perspective on the technical and diagnostic difficulties of our sub-specialty. This was followed by a masterclass on nutrition by Ms. Heather Harmsen a fundamental yet often overlooked subject. The day ended with a practical session on critical appraisal by Professor Ally and Professor Setshedi which was difficult but rewarding. The acquisition of this tool will feature future programs as this reinforces the discipline of critical academic differentiation hitherto neglected in the practice of clinical medicine. The Lord Charles Somerset hotel provided a unique and wonderful intersection for the Gastro Fellows of 2023. This was an intersection for acquiring new knowledge, new training, new research avenues, new perspectives (perspective is often more impactful than facts as this is attendant on the application of knowledge and experience to optimise patient outcomes) and most importantly, for the opportunity to meet colleagues and establish new professional and personal networks and friendships. GASTRO FOUNDATION MEETINGS