Thalassaemia International Federation organized its 8^th International Conference on Thalassaemia & Haemoglobinopathies and the 10^th International Parent and Thalassaemics International Federation Conference in Athens, Greece in October 2001.

Thalassaemia Society of Pakistan also participated in this important conference through its delegation led by Prof. Yasmin Raashid & Prof. Jovaria Mannan. The delegation also included the brave five Thalassaemic children, who had walked to the Base Camp of K2 in an awareness and fundraising walk of Thalassaemia Society of Pakistan.

 In a special ceremony arranged at the conference, the documentary of Walk to the Base camp of K2 was shown and children were given standing ovation by the audience for their extra ordinary achievement. President of Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) honoured these children by awarding special certificates for their extra ordinary bravery and courage.

Ambassador of Pakistan in Greece Mr. Javed Hafeez was the Chief Guest at this occasion. Mr. Ambassador on behalf TSP also presented the President of TIF with a souvenir. Also present at this occasion were Mr. Panos Englezos,  Chairman of TIF, Mrs. Javed Hafeez and Mr. Amir Shehzad, Second Secretary of Embassy of Pakistan in Athens.

The conference provided an excellent opportunity for Pakistani Thalassaemics to meet other Thalassaemics from around the world,. They were acknowledged for their bravery and appreciated for their efforts of sending a message to the world that:

“If looked after properly, Thalassaemics could do any thing in the world”

 Meeting other Thalassaemics from other countries, majority of whom was in good health and all pursuing successful careers was also an eye opener for the Pakistani Thalassaemic. This gave them hope and for the first time they have also started planning their futures.