National Pathology Week 2017 runs from Monday 6 November to Sunday 12 November. This year's theme is Pathology in the Community, where we'll be exploring the ways pathologists can engage with their local communities on subjects like blood and organ donation, screening programmes, and what happens to samples in the lab.

With less than two weeks to go, we're in the final stages of planning our exciting events and online activities – here are just a few ways you can take part. 

• Volunteer for us – on 10 November, families will descend on our science fair in our local borough of Tower Hamlets, to peer down microscopes, learn all about what happens to samples in the lab, and play DNA Twister. 'Adventures in Health: Secrets of the Lab' is sure to be lots of fun, and we're still looking for volunteers to help run our hands-on activities. If you have a background in science or medicine and would like to join us, please contact Rachel Berkoff on [email protected], or visit our volunteering opportunities page for more information, 
• Get your pictures ready – during National Pathology Week, we're running a social media campaign called #TestingTesting, and will be asking you to share your testing-related snaps on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. We want you to think as creatively as possible, and are even offering a star prize for the best picture! Below is an example from College staff for inspiration. 

• Send us your patient stories – do you have a story that showcases the contribution pathology makes to patient care? Perhaps you diagnosed a condition early leading to better care and treatment, or helped a patient to manage their condition? Please send 200 words or fewer to [email protected] by this Friday (27 October), and we’ll include the best case studies on our website. Contact [email protected] for any further information on submitting a case study. Patient confidentiality is always considered, with case studies anonymised if needs be.
• Run your own event – want to do something in your local area? There's still time! We've created a series of 'pick up and go' public engagement activities that are suitable for young people in key stages 3 and 4, plus posters and factsheets you can print off at home. And if you want to focus on testing, you can contact Lab Tests Online for further resource and information. Remember – even if you set up a simple information stand in your hospital, you'll be making a valuable contribution to the public's understanding of pathology. 

A big thank you so far to all those who've set up their own activities, volunteered for our events, or lent their help to the College in other ways – we can't wait to get started. Make sure to follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to keep abreast of what's happening, and let us know what you're doing using the hashtag #NPW2017. 

Author(s)

Kit Richardson

• Senior Digital Content and Development Coordinator