It’s hard to believe it’s been more than six months since COVID-19 turned its ugly head.

Every aspect of our professional and personal lives has been changed by it. The way we learn, the way we work, the way we socialize—the pandemic has left no stone unturned. And as it continues on, we’re learning to live in the “new normal.” Unfortunately, this temporary status is impacting the traditions we know and love.

Recently, we announced that the TCT Meetings of ASTCT and CIBMTR would be going virtual. From a health and safety perspective, it was the right thing for us to do. Part of the reason we gather in the first place is to improve the world of BMT and cellular therapy, and in turn help people live healthy, happy lives.

We are purveyors of health, and large gatherings still pose as a risk. In that sense, we knew it was important for us to make the decision to move to virtual. But just because we’re moving the venue doesn’t mean we’re not still dedicated to bringing quality education and opportunities to connect with one another.

The TCT Meetings of ASTCT and CIBMTR allow us to discuss the greatest issues and achievements in cellular therapy today. It also allows us to be with colleagues and friends to celebrate the work we’ve done in the past year. The virtual experience will feel different, no doubt, and we will surely miss the fun we all have in person. But it doesn’t matter how we meet. Because we know that to move the field forward, we need to share our experiences.

I know this will be a quality experience. And in this platform, colleagues who couldn’t have joined us in Hawaii will now have a seat at the table. Knowing this, I’m looking forward to learning with each and every one of you.

While this year might look different, let’s continue to bring the unmatched education and eagerness to connect. No matter how we meet, virtual or in person, we will celebrate our science and advances in patient care.

Pavan Reddy, MD

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