The 2026 MDF Regional Conference in Winston-Salem brought the myotonic dystrophy community together for a day of learning, connection, and support.
2026 MDF Regional Conference in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina | May 2, 2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 MDF Regional Conference in Winston-Salem! Held in partnership with the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, this one-day, in-person conference brought together people living with myotonic dystrophy (DM), caregivers and family members, clinicians, researchers, and industry partners for a day of learning, connection, and community.
In MDF’s 18th year of conferences, the 2026 Winston-Salem Regional Conference welcomed more than 100 community members from 14 states. Built for the DM community, the conference featured sessions from leading DM experts, updates on the latest research, community discussion, and opportunities to connect with others who truly understand life with DM.
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Program Highlights
The conference offered a robust, full-day program that included general sessions, breakout sessions, and a community reception with networking.
Session topics included clinical trials and emerging treatments, industry updates, DM1 and DM2 overview sessions, myotonic dystrophy in childhood, heart health, genetic testing, work and disability resources, and practical DM life hacks. The program also featured community favorites like Stump the Doctor and a Movement Moment, along with a Wake Forest DM Research Showcase highlighting ongoing research and emerging opportunities in the field.
The Winston-Salem program reflected the diverse needs of the DM community, with sessions designed for people newly diagnosed, longtime community members, caregivers, and families seeking practical information, research updates, and connection with expert clinicians and researchers.
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In Partnership with Wake Forest University School of Medicine
MDF was proud to host this event in partnership with the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, an important hub for DM research where Dr. Araya Puwanant leads myotonic dystrophy research. Dr. Puwanant is a board-certified physician in neurology and neuromuscular medicine.
The Winston-Salem conference also featured a Wake Forest DM Research Showcase, giving attendees a closer look at ongoing myotonic dystrophy research at Wake Forest University. The session highlighted current studies, key findings, and how this work is advancing the understanding and treatment of DM while pointing toward future care and therapy opportunities.
Interested in learning more about myotonic dystrophy research and trials at Wake Forest University School of Medicine? Check out the studies below!
- How Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2 Affects the Brain
- Studying the Drug VX-670 for Adults with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
- Studying the Drug AOC 1001 for Patients with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
- Finding Muscle Changes in Myotonic Dystrophy Patients
- DM1 Brain Biomarkers study (Coming soon! Check the Wake Forest Atrium Health Webpage for updates)
Access and Support
MDF worked to make the conference as welcoming and accessible as possible for the DM community. Registration was priced at $20 USD per adult ticket, and children 18 and under attended free. Tickets included conference sessions, meals, and other activities throughout the day.
To help reduce barriers to attendance, MDF offered financial aid for community members attending in person. This reflects a goal of MDF Regional Conferences: making it easier for individuals and families to participate, ask questions, and connect closer to home.
MDF also supported a range of attendee needs. Dietary needs were collected in advance. In-person registration included breakfast, lunch, hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and all-day coffee and tea. MDF also secured discounted hotel room blocks and arranged a mobility rental discount to help support attendees who needed mobility assistance. The venue offered convenient transportation access for attendees traveling from around the region and beyond.
Sponsors
Special thanks to our conference sponsors for helping make this event possible.
Lead Sponsor
Diamond Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Supporter Sponsors
