If you are a newcomer to the Myotonic community, you may be a little overwhelmed by the wealth of materials and information that you're presented with at the 2015 Myotonic Annual Conference. We invite you to attend the First Timers Tea Reception on Thursday, September 17 at 5:00 pm in FYVE Restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton, where you will have a chance to learn more about Myotonic's mission and current work, and meet members of the staff and Board of Directors.

Many of the sessions at the conference, while designed for a lay audience, may be challenging for those with little to no knowledge about DM. To help you get the most out of the presentations, we suggest that you take a look at the following resources on our website before leaving for Washington, DC:

Understanding the genetics of DM:

• Resources and related web content (click on the "Genetics" tab)
• Webinar: Everything You Wanted to Know About CTG Repeats

Understanding common gastrointestinal and swallowing issues:

• Resources and related web content (click on the "Gastrointestinal System" tab)
• Webinar: Treatment for Dysphagia
• Webinar: Nutrition Issues Related to DM
• 2014 Myotonic Annual Conference: Gastrointestinal Health

Family planning:

• Resources and related web content
• 2014 Myotonic Annual Conference: Family Planning Panel Discussion

Parents of children with congenital or juvenile-onset DM1:

• Resources and related web content (click on the "Congenital and Juvenile-Onset" tab)
• Webinar: Tips for Parents Caring for Children with Congenital DM

Parents of adults living with juvenile-onset DM1:

• Resources and related web content
• 2014 Myotonic Annual Conference: Challenges for Juvenile-Onset Adults - Parent Focus