Cardiac Considerations for DM2 with Saman Nazarian, MD, PhD
A cardiologist with expertise in myotonic dystrophy will explain how DM2 can impact cardiac function, including an overview of the cardiac electrical system, common symptoms associated with conduction problems, and preventative measures.

Male Caregivers Roundtable
Facilitated support group discussion for male caregivers of myotonic dystrophy patients.

Adaptive Chair Yoga with Ellen Shapiro
Come stretch and relax in a yoga session specifically designed for people living with myotonic dystrophy.

DM Genetics & Family Planning with Darren Monckton, PhD and Tanya Bardakjian, MS
Experts in DM genetics will discuss family planning and myotonic dystrophy, including the specifics of the genetic mutation, and practical considerations for affected community members considering starting a family.

Congenital Caregivers Roundtable
Facilitated support group discussion for caregivers of congenital and childhood-onset myotonic dystrophy patients.

Myotonic Dystrophy & the World of Work with Michele Boardman, MA, CPWIC, CESP, LPC
An employment expert will review strategies, tips and information on how to navigate the employment process while living with myotonic dystrophy, including job searching, resume building, interviewing and more.

Grassroots Advocacy-MDF Needs You! with Jenn M. Dale, MA
Join MDF’s public policy consultant and advocacy expert to learn how you can educate your members of Congress about myotonic dystrophy and advocate for important research and care legislation.

Female Caregivers Roundtable
Facilitated support group discussion for female caregivers of myotonic dystrophy patients.

Going to School with Myotonic Dystrophy: Understanding Special Education & I.D.E.A., with Kathy Boundy, JD & Sarah Stoney, MSW, LSW
Listen to a panel of parents and an expert discuss I.D.E.A., U.S. legislation directing special education programs, and how to navigate transitions through school for children with myotonic dystrophy.

Emergency Preparedness with Darlene Shelton
Learn how you can successfully manage medical emergencies. The speaker is the founder of an alliance focused on emergency preparedness for rare diseases and will share great information about emergency protocols for those with special needs.

DM101: Understanding the Disease Basics with Lauren Elman, MD
A session for first-time attendees and those interested in a refresher on DM genetics, symptom burden and disease management strategies.

Adaptive Chair Yoga with Ellen Shapiro
Come stretch and relax in a yoga session specifically designed for people living with myotonic dystrophy.

Conference Welcome
The opening session will include updates on our Care and Cure programming and some exciting Foundation announcements, including the presentation of the Kayla Vittek Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Advocate.

Lunch
Enjoy a break for lunch. Find plenty of options at the historic Reading Terminal Market, one of America’s largest and oldest public markets.

Registration
Check in and receive your free conference bag and swag!

Lounge and Coffee
Enjoy coffee and a sitting area with the MDF community.