More than 3 years ago I had the idea to create a totally unique CPD offering. I wanted to create a VetMed Retreat where the wonderful VetMed community could come to learn, recharge, and connect. The venue would be high end. Wonderful food would be served, and it would be exclusive, small group and a place to learn.
There was one huge problem though. The cost of said exclusive, luxury venue is not cheap. Quite the opposite in fact. My husband says I’m a snob and have ridiculous standards so perhaps it was my choice of venue cranking up the cost. Still, it was a huge barrier. Then a little pandemic hit and I found out I was pregnant, so it got shelved.
Recover Instructor
Until I became a RECOVER initiative instructor and realised, I could offer something totally unique. Up till very recently RECOVER training was only available in the USA or Europe. I travelled to Estonia for my Rescuer Certification and then too Ghent for the instructor training. It was on the Eurostar back from here that a plan started to form. Could we offer certification as part of the retreat, it would still be cheaper than travelling abroad and we could build on it and add breakout sessions. It could be small group and collaborative.
I started to source a venue, dead end after dead end. Multiple people told me to book a hotel event room and then just get rooms, but that was exactly what I didn’t want. It couldn’t be like everything else. The aim was to take all the parts I loved about congress and CPD and take them up a level. As a profession we are stretched, COVID was especially tough on the veterinary world. Everyone talked about and praised the NHS, but no one really publicly recognised that vets and nurses were showing up every day in really challenging circumstances.
The retreat in my mind was going to be something that had huge clinical value but also a nod towards wellness. Allowing people to rest and recharge. Yoga I decided had to be part of it, as well as someone cooking and catering for the guests. Everyone needed their own room and no shared bathrooms. Eventually I found Cotswold Park Barns and when I finally got to see it my dreams were fulfilled. It ticked every box, and the owner was so accommodating.
Countdown is on!
The VetMed Retreat venue was sorted. It was now just simply getting the catering organised, selling places, and preparing equipment for the practical sessions, or so I thought. Well, it’s just over 2 weeks to go as I write this, and I cannot believe the amount of work that this retreat has been. I’ve built manikins, created numerous social media posts, sourced equipment, ordered yoga mats, created a menu, researched pink cocktails (very important) and built a website. Plus, so much more that I hope will delight and impress.
I’ve placed high expectations on myself, and I want to deliver on this VetMed Retreat. I am so grateful that the retreat has sold out and I just want to see everything come together. Watch this space for the full report soon (19 days to be precise)
If this appeals to you head here to book your place on the next one.
