The North American Thrombosis Forum was incorporated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on May 11, 2006 and received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status on June 27, 2006. Since its inception, NATF's accomplishments demonstrate the important role the organization plays in the field of thrombosis. The organization's mission and areas of focus are reflected in the programmatic efforts. The multi-disciplinary approach to thrombotic disease enhances education, awareness, advocacy, research, prevention, and diagnosis. The organization was conceptualized to complement existing thrombosis-related organizations and provide a forum for those interested in venous thromboembolism and other thrombotic disorders to focus their efforts. Similar to regional thrombosis organizations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, NATF provides a structure to coordinate and address all aspects of the thrombosis challenge. The NATFonline website (natfonline.org) is seen as a forum to enable the necessary conversation between groups that will enhance thrombosis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. As a means of promoting the important communication exchange between "lay" and "professional", we have created two conversation threads or online communication mechanisms. We encourage both "lay" and "professional" to contribute to both of these conversations so that we can learn from each other with the hope of raising awareness and improve outcomes.