We are writing this in the week after the London 2012 Olympics. Even the most cynical of Brits were forced to join in the infectious and friendly atmosphere that impressed all visitors to a city not normally known for its welcoming and helpful inhabitants. The unifying power of sport that the world witnessed was impressive. Similarly the coming together of so many clinicians with a shared passion for the care of pregnant women with medical problems ensured that ISOM 2012 felt like a global family reunion. Thank you so much to the speakers and all those who attended and made it such a stimulating and educational meeting.