Egon and Ann Diczfalusy Foundation

Dear Friends, Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a particular honour and a great pleasure for me to extend a most cordial welcome to all of you to the Opening Meeting of the Egon and Ann Foundation for the support of Research on Reproductive Health at the University of Szeged.

Khalil Gibran says in the Prophet that „vague and nebolous is the beginning of all things, but not their end”. The idea of this Foundation emerged gradually in the course of a series of discussions; however it was uncertain to the very last moment, whether or not we will succeed in establishing the Foundation in time for the Opening Meeting, because the complex legal procedures, financial problems and shortness of time.

We have learned from history that all times were difficult times, but also that some of them were more difficult than others, the present one probably more difficult and complex than all times since the dawn of history. Such times are considered with caution, since it is generally believed that they are not suitable for new departures.

There is an interesting monument of Léon Gambetta in Paris with an inscription on the Base of the monument by the American poet, Walt Whitman: „No one can forbid us the future.” and we felt, that – whatever happens – there will always be a future for humankind, because that future is created in the minds of the future generations of young scientists. We were influenced in our decision by Publilius Syrus, who almost 100 years ago emphasized that „nobody knows what he can do, unless he tries” and even more, by the statement of the famous polar explorer and humanist, Fridtjof Nansen: „The difficult is what takes a little time; the impossible is what takes a little longer.”

And we decided to try, trusting in our good friends’ help and assistance in every corner of the world. And – together with you – we are greatly looking forward to this Opening Meeting, promising already now, that more to come!

There is an old fable about the two devoted friends, the little piggy and the hen, who – on a Sunday-promenade – became very hungry, and the hen suggested to visit the neighbouring small restaurant and have ham and eggs. No, never! The piggy said, because for you it is a contribution, but for me it is a commitment. For us on the Board of Directors the future development of this foundation is a lifetime commitment; however, to be able to do so, we will need your and others contribution. Please help us, in order to be able to help others, who need help!

I wish you all a successful scientific meeting of high quality and a most pleasant sejour in Szeged!