Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the International Headache Society (IHS) and the American Headache Society^® (AHS) we are delighted to invite you to attend the 14th International Headache Congress to be held in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from September 10 to 13, 2009.

The theme of "Independence from Headache" and the goals of the congress are to share the recent advances in the science and treatment of headache medicine. The congress will consist of platform and poster presentations, teaching courses, scientific and satellite symposia. You will also have ample opportunity to share knowledge with colleagues from around the globe.

Philadelphia promises to be a dynamic, diverse venue for our international community. Cultural, culinary, artistic and ethnic treasures abound in this city and its surrounding countryside. The art lover's itinerary may want to include the renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art, the nearby Brandywine River Museum, known for its unparallel collection of works by three generations of Wyeths, or the Barnes Foundation, home to one of the world's largest collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and early Modern paintings, as well as important examples of African sculpture. After you enjoy the gala reception at the National Constitution Center, you can continue your historical learning experience by visiting the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, all within walking distance. If your historical interests lean more to medicine, we suggest a walk to Pennsylvania Hospital, as the oldest hospital in the land, it is yet another one of Philadelphia's treasured Benjamin Franklin's legacies, or The College of Physicians' Mütter Museum, founded in 1858 to educate future doctors about anatomy and human medical anomalies.

Even the most discriminating shopper can find that coveted must-have item in the city's many fashion boutiques, antique shops and art galleries. You can top off your day of shopping by enjoying a meal at any one of the city's restaurants, ranging from the prestigious Mobil five-star award-winner to the take-out stands famous for the Philadelphia Cheesesteak. But perhaps the best way to experience Philadelphia's charm is to walk its streets-from the busy commerce boulevards lined with towering architecture to the quaint cobblestone lanes, where our country's historical landmarks are side-by-side with beautifully restored Colonial homes and gardens.

On behalf of the organizing and scientific committees, we look forward to welcoming you to the 14th IHS Congress, which promises to be a memorable scientific, cultural and social experience.

Stephen D. Silberstein, MD
David W. Dodick, MD