{"id":18757,"date":"2023-09-07T12:35:01","date_gmt":"2023-09-07T19:35:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mr66givry2.onrocket.site\/?post_type=events&#038;p=18757"},"modified":"2026-02-13T12:36:25","modified_gmt":"2026-02-13T20:36:25","slug":"2023-mdf-annual-conference-washington-dc","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/events\/2023-mdf-annual-conference-washington-dc\/","title":{"rendered":"2023 MDF Annual Conference, Washington, DC"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item\">\n<div>\n<h2><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-18758 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-MDF-Annual-Conference-Banner.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1200\" height=\"621\" srcset=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-MDF-Annual-Conference-Banner.png 1200w, https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-MDF-Annual-Conference-Banner-300x155.png 300w, https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-MDF-Annual-Conference-Banner-1024x530.png 1024w, https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-MDF-Annual-Conference-Banner-768x397.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2 class=\"rtecenter\">2023\u00a0MDF Annual Conference<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"rtecenter\">Renaissance Washington DC Downtown\u00a0Hotel<br \/>\nSeptember 7th, 8th &amp; 9th<\/h3>\n<h2>MDF Returns to Washington DC for Our Largest Conference Ever<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Thank you so much for joining us in Washington DC, and online, for the 2023 MDF Annual Conference!<\/strong>\u00a0The 2023 MDF Annual Conference &#8211; sometimes called the \u201cDM family reunion\u201d \u2013 kicked off with MDF Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill on\u00a0Thursday, September 7th,\u00a0and continued with our educational and networking\u00a0sessions through Saturday, September 9th, 2023, at the Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel.<\/p>\n<p>With over 600 in-person and virtual attendees from 18 countries &#8211; we are thrilled that so many could join us to make lifelong memories and experiences! We hope you enjoyed this year&rsquo;s sessions exploring research, drug development, symptom management, and our\u00a0opportunities for formal and informal networking, wellness, and fun.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/media\/set\/?vanity=MyotonicStrong&amp;set=a.687330583427692\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view all the photos from the 2023 MDF Annual Conference on Facebook!<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_Award-winners-web.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<h2>Congratulations to Our Community Award Recipients!<\/h2>\n<p>MDF is proud to congratulate and honor our four Community Award recipients for their uncontested commitment and service to the myotonic dystrophy community:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Margaret Bowler<\/strong><br \/>\nLifetime Achievement Award<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rebecca Coplin<\/strong><br \/>\n5th Annual Kayla Vittek Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Advocate<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ann Woodbury<\/strong><br \/>\nMDF Support Group Facilitator Warrior Award<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kristen McClintock<\/strong><br \/>\nMDF Support Group Facilitator Warrior Award<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_2023-Congressional-Briefing.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_2023-Congressional-Briefing-2.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_2023-Advocates-on-Hill-1.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>MDF Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill<\/h2>\n<p>On Thursday, MDF\u00a0hosted MDF Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill\u00a0to meet with Members of Congress and their staff to advocate for DM research funding and awareness. (<em>Special thanks to our Lead Conference Sponsor,\u00a0<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aviditybiosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Avidity Biosciences<\/em><\/a><em>, for sponsoring our\u00a0Community Breakfast &amp; Advocate Training!<\/em>)\u00a0After reviewing\u00a0everything you need to know for a successful congressional meeting, attendees boarded a shuttle bus to meet their representatives on Capitol Hill.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Over 130 myotonic dystrophy advocates visited over 100 congressional offices on behalf of the DM Community!<\/strong>\u00a0We are grateful to all\u00a0who joined us for a special MDF Congressional Briefing that included presentations from Senator Klobuchar, the Department of Defense, the National Institutes of Health, Avidity Biosciences, and members of MDF\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/mdf-launches-national-advocacy-committee\">National Advocacy Committee<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/mdf-advocates-work-secure-federal-myotonic-dystrophy-research-funding\">Click here to read more about MDF Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The day concluded with a\u00a0Welcome Reception &amp; Advocacy Awards Presentation, where we\u00a0recognized Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and their staff for their friendship and support of the myotonic dystrophy community.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/myotonic-dystrophy-advocacy\">Click here to learn more about advocating for the DM Community!<\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-Step-Repeat-Group.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/David-Gerrard-Jorge.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Engaged.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Magic &amp; Mystery at the MDF Annual Conference<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Throughout the Conference,\u00a0you could feel the magic in the air!<\/strong>\u00a0At our Friday Dinner, the\u00a0spectacular magician &amp; mentalist,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gerardmagic.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">David Gerard<\/a>, put on a legendary performance that left even some of our most skeptical scientists and board members scratching their heads!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Our Saturday night Dinner &amp; Dance Party kept the surprises coming!\u00a0<\/strong>Thank you to everyone who participated in our Mystery Box Challenge! Your support helps funds our critically important work on behalf of individuals and families living with myotonic dystrophy. Congratulations to our three winners!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Ginny Morris<\/strong>, a trip to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/myotonic.ejoinme.org\/2023-MDF-Gala\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2023 MDF Gala<\/a>!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ritika Puri<\/strong>,\u00a0a brand new iPad!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Angie Wiggans<\/strong>, a $250 Amazon Gift Card!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Congratulations Iberia &amp; Jackson!\u00a0<\/strong>Before our community began breaking out their signature dance moves, an incredibly brave young man named Jackson Cooley made his way to the stage for a surprise marriage proposal to Iberia Dunning! He shared how the two had met and become friends through the JOA track of the MDF Annual Conference 5 years ago and had since fallen in love!\u00a0<em>Congratulations to the future bride and groom!<\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-Conference-Table-Attendees.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-Researchers-Conference.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Eichinger-poster.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Improving the Conference Experience<\/h2>\n<p>In response to community feedback, we were delighted to offer new programs designed to better connect our diverse community and improve their Conference experience.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Networking Buddies: Connecting the DM Community and Research Professionals.\u00a0<\/strong>An exciting and\u00a0new way\u00a0to get to know one another, the Conference Networking Buddies system paired DM Professionals with people living with DM and their caregivers. In addition be seated together at Friday&rsquo;s Lunch, Conference networking buddies continued to get to know each other\u00a0during snack breaks, cocktail hours, and\u00a0poster sessions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The Wellness Room, brought to you by\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.harmonybiosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Harmony Biosciences<\/strong><\/a><strong>.<\/strong>\u00a0New to this year\u2019s conference is the Wellness Room. Throughout Friday &amp; Saturday, the Wellness Room welcomed\u00a0attendees to take advantage of a delightful array of activities designed to relax, rejuvenate, restore:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><u>Quiet Spaces:<\/u>\u00a0Step away from the conference buzz to find tranquility in our designated quiet space filled with comfortable lounge furniture<\/li>\n<li><u>Movement &amp; Mindfulness Moments:<\/u>\u00a0Join our experienced instructors specializing in working with DM and\/or other neuromuscular disease communities for invigorating movement moments and soothing mindfulness exercises<\/li>\n<li><u>Fireside Chats:<\/u>\u00a0Engage with leading experts in insightful 45-minute-long small group discussions covering a wide range of topics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/FDA-Panelists.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-Fellows-breakfast.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-lg-4\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-SGFs-Conference.png\" width=\"100%\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h1>Our Program &amp; Recorded Sessions<\/h1>\n<p>The 2023 MDF Annual Conference hosted a wide range of topics of interest for our Community presented by\u00a0leading experts in DM.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/MDF_2023_Conference_Program_WEB.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to download a PDF of the MDF Annual Conference Program Book!<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>MDF is actively working to make recorded sessions publicly available on the Digital Academy!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\"><strong>The MDF Digital Academy:<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0Re-watch and share your favorite\u00a0presentations and learn more about myotonic dystrophy with our extensive catalog of video resources. Watch previous conference sessions, webinars, and technical explanations on DM. Find hope and inspiration from community members sharing their stories and learn about the impact of the Foundation.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\">Click here to start exploring the MDF Digital Academy.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>Please note, sessions marked with an * were not recorded by request or to protect the privacy of live attendees.<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>General Sessions<\/h3>\n<h4>First Timers\u2019 Tea*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">The First Timers\u2019 Tea is an informational and networking event for those who have never before attended an MDF Conference. This session will be led by MDF and community leaders, and is designed to orient families to the Conference, to MDF, and to the DM Community.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/welcome-state-foundation-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">Welcome &amp; State of the Foundation<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">MDF leadership and Board of Directors will share exiting updates about the Foundation, International Myotonic Dystrophy Awareness Day, and discuss progress in the field of DM.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/dm-drug-development-approval-considerations-fda-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">DM Drug Development and Approval Considerations with the FDA<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Nicholas Johnson, MD, MSci., FAAN<\/strong>, Virginia Commonwealth University<br \/>\n<strong>Michelle Campbell, PhD<\/strong>, Federal Drug Administration<br \/>\n<strong>Ami K. Mankodi, MD<\/strong>, Federal Drug Administration<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Gain insight and understanding on the important role the FDA plays in the drug approval process through a presentation from the\u00a0FDA. This informative presentation will be followed by a panel discussion with the FDA, a DM expert clinician, and members of the DM Community. This session provides an opportunity for our community and clinicians to share the serious medical challenges facing our community with the FDA.<\/p>\n<h4>Industry Updates<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">With an opening statement from Dr. Andy Berglund, MDF Scientific Advisory Committee member, representatives from biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies will provide updates on their drug development efforts in the DM field.<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/industry-updates-day-1-2023-mdf-annual-conference\"><strong>Industry Updates Day 1:<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0Avidity Biosciences, Juvena Therapeutics, Sanofi &amp; ARTHEx\u00a0Biotech.<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/industry-updates-day-2-2023-mdf-annual-conference\"><strong>Industry Updates Day 2:<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0Dyne Therapeutics, PepGen Inc., Harmony Biosciences, Rgenta Therapeutics &amp; AMO\u00a0Pharma.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/stories-inspiration-myotonic-dystrophy-community-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">Stories of Inspiration from the DM Community<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Start the day off with a celebration of the DM community, as community leaders step onto the stage to receive special awards, including the 5th Annual Kayla Vittek Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Advocate, the Above &amp; Beyond Award, and Lifetime Achievement Award.<\/p>\n<h4>Exhibitor and Research Poster Showcase*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Network and connect with poster authors conducting DM research, industry partners, and others working in the DM space.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/research-posters-2023-mdf-annual-conference\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the 2023 Research Poster Abstracts.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>DM Type 1<\/h3>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/dm1-disease-development-symptom-management-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">DM1: Disease Development and Symptom Management<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Johanna Hamel, MD<\/strong>, University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><em>This session is ideal for those new to the DM1 community and those seeking a refresher.\u00a0<\/em>Learn from a leading expert about the causes and genetics underlying DM1, how and when in life it can affect different symptoms of the body, tips for self-management of symptoms, and how to best work with your clinical care team to ensure the best quality of life.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/impact-cognitive-impairments-daily-living-myotonic-dystrophy-2023-mdf-annual\">DM1: Impact of Cognitive Impairments on Daily Living<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Samar Muslemani, MOT., MSc. PhD<\/strong>, Universite de Sherbrooke<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Issues related to cognitive impairments are sometimes misunderstood, especially when considering how they may relate to independence and activities of daily living (ADLs). These misunderstandings can sometimes create conflicts or prejudice. Learn from a leading expert about how cognitive impairments influence the ability to accomplish ADLs and social roles. And how occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals can help with ADL difficulties related to cognitive impairments.<\/p>\n<h4>DM1 Networking*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Networking sessions at the conference provide safe and welcoming environments to connect and engage with your peers through discussions led by MDF Support Group Facilitators.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/managing-sleepiness-sleep-disturbances-myotonic-dystrophy-2023-mdf-annual\">Managing Sleepiness &amp; Sleep Disturbances in DM<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>John Day, MD, PhD<\/strong>, Stanford University<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><em>This session will cover sleepiness and other sleep disturbance considerations for both DM1 and DM2.\u00a0<\/em>Learn from a leading expert about sleepiness, and other sleep disturbances related to DM1 and DM2, best practices for care, monitoring, and self-management. Learn also about the latest research and how you can get involved!<\/p>\n<h4>DM1 Community Discussion Panel: Life Hacks*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Community Discussion Panels at the conference are sessions lead by MDF volunteer community leaders. Each community has a dedicated discussion panel and topics chosen by community leaders.<\/p>\n<h4>DM1 Stump the Doctor*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Ericka Greene, MD<\/strong>, Houston Methodist<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Stump the Doctor Sessions at the conference are an opportunity for community members to meet a leading expert in myotonic dystrophy and ask their most persistent, challenging questions.\u00a0<em>Can you stump the doctor?<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>DM Type 2<\/h3>\n<h4>DM2: Disease Development and Symptom Management*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Chad Heatwole, MD, MS<\/strong>,<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><em>This session is ideal for anyone within the DM2 community.\u00a0<\/em>Learn from a leading expert about the causes and genetics underlying DM2, how and when in life it can affect different systems in the body, monitoring, and how best to self-manage and work with your care team to ensure the best quality of life. Learn, too, about the latest research in DM2 and how you can get involved.<\/p>\n<h4>DM2 Networking &amp; Social Hour*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Networking sessions at the conference provide safe and welcoming environments to connect and engage with your peers through discussions led by MDF Support Group Facilitators.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/managing-sleepiness-sleep-disturbances-myotonic-dystrophy-2023-mdf-annual\">Managing Sleepiness and Other Sleep Disturbances<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>John Day, MD, PhD<\/strong>,<strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Stanford University<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><em>This session will cover sleepiness and other sleep disturbance considerations for both DM1 and DM2.\u00a0<\/em>Learn from a leading expert about sleepiness, and other sleep disturbances related to DM1 and DM2, best practices for care, monitoring, and self-management. Learn also about the latest research and how you can get involved!<\/p>\n<h4>DM2\u00a0Community Discussion Panel*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Community Discussion Panels at the conference are sessions lead by MDF volunteer community leaders. Each community has a dedicated discussion panel and topics chosen by community leaders.<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/gastrointestinal-considerations-myotonic-dystrophy-type-2-2023-mdf-annual\">Gastrointestinal Considerations in DM2<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Irene Sonu, MD<\/strong>, Stanford University<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">This session explores the ways in which DM2 affects the GI system, treatment and management strategies aimed at alleviating GI issues, and improving quality of life.<\/p>\n<h4>DM2 Stump the Doctor*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Araya Puwanant, MD<\/strong>, Wake Forest University<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Stump the Doctor Sessions at the conference are an opportunity for community members to meet a leading expert in myotonic dystrophy and ask their most persistent, challenging questions.\u00a0<em>Can you stump the doctor?<\/em><\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/cardiac-considerations-myotonic-dystrophy-type-2-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">DM2: Cardiac Considerations<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Pradeep P.A. Mammen, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHFSA<\/strong>,\u00a0University of Kansas Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Learn from a leading expert about the effect of DM2 on the heart.<\/p>\n<h3>CDM Families<\/h3>\n<h4>CDM: Communication Considerations in Congenital Myotonic Dystrophy Workshop*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Kiera Berggren, MA\/CCC-SLP, MS<\/strong>,\u00a0Virginia Commonwealth University<br \/>\n<strong>Lauren Brand, MS, CCC-SLP<\/strong>, Lauren Brand Speech<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">This working session begins with a short presentation on communication concerns in CDM, followed by a structured discussion on the considerations for parents and caregivers regarding communication in\u00a0children with CDM.<\/p>\n<h4>CDM Family Networking &amp; Social Hour*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Networking sessions at the conference provide safe and welcoming environments to connect and engage with your peers through discussions led by MDF Support Group Facilitators.<\/p>\n<h4>CDM: What to do Before Your Child Turns 18*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Join this panel of experts as they share important considerations to consider before your child with CDM turns 18.<\/p>\n<h3>Caregivers<\/h3>\n<h4>Caregiver Networking &amp; Social Hour*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Networking sessions at the conference provide safe and welcoming environments to connect and engage with your peers through discussions led by MDF Support Group Facilitators.<\/p>\n<h4>Unaffected Male Caregivers\u00a0Community Discussion Panel*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Community Discussion Panels at the conference are sessions lead by MDF volunteer community leaders. Each community has a dedicated discussion panel and topics chosen by community leaders.<\/p>\n<h4>Unaffected Female Caregivers\u00a0Community Discussion Panel*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Community Discussion Panels at the conference are sessions lead by MDF volunteer community leaders. Each community has a dedicated discussion panel and topics chosen by community leaders.<\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Topic Based Breakouts<\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/social-security-administration-demystifies-benefits-process-2023-mdf-annual\">Social Security Administration Demystifies the Benefits Process<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Diana Varela<\/strong>, Public Affairs Specialist, Social Security Administration<br \/>\n<strong>Joyce Lee<\/strong>, Medical Relations Officer, Department on Disability Services<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Gain a better understanding of the role of the Social Security Administration (SSA) programs, benefits, and services available to the DM community in the US. Leaders from the SSA will join this panel to help demystify the application, denial, and appeal process.<\/p>\n<h4>Stump the Doctor: Mobility*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Tina Duong, MPT, PhD<\/strong>, Stanford<br \/>\n<strong>Katy Eichinger, PhD, DPT<\/strong>, University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Stump the Doctor Sessions at the conference are an opportunity for community members to meet a leading expert in myotonic dystrophy and ask their most persistent, challenging questions.\u00a0<em>Can you stump the doctor?<\/em><\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/new-horizons-myotonic-dystrophy-field-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">New Horizons in the DM Field<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>John Day, MD, PhD<\/strong>, Stanford<br \/>\n<strong>Charles Thornton, MD<\/strong>, University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Hear about the significant progress in the DM field from leading experts during this panel discussion. Learn about the impact the community can have on continuing the progress toward treatments and a cure.<\/p>\n<h4>Mental Health &amp; Myotonic Dystrophy: Answering Your Questions*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Melissa Dixon, PhD<\/strong>, University of Utah<br \/>\n<strong>Benjamin Gallais, PhD<\/strong>, Universite de Sherbrooke<br \/>\n<strong>Ruth Sheldon, MPH, MSW<\/strong>, Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Join this panel of experts as they share insight and engage in dialogue with the audience to answer questions about mental health, and the new MDF Mental Health Handbook. Visit the Mental Health Handbook poster in the Poster Showcase and add your anonymous question to be asked during the session.<\/p>\n<h3>Juvenile-onset Adults (JOA)<\/h3>\n<p>MDF designed the juvenile-onset adults (JOA) sessions with community input from JOAs\u00a0and these sessions were\u00a0only open to the JOA community.\u00a0JOA is often defined as someone with DM1 whose symptoms manifested in childhood or early adulthood, usually before age 21. These sessions were designed to provide networking, connection and resource opportunities for this unique community. In addition to the sessions outlined below, the JOA lounge hosted\u00a0the following activities\u00a0 during \u201copen lounge\u201d times:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Card and board games (Uno, Balloon Volleyball, Mafia, etc.)<\/li>\n<li>Group Games (Selfie Challenges, Order Challenges)<\/li>\n<li>Karaoke<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Getting to Know You &amp; Ice-Breaker Games*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Let\u2019s get to know each other with some awesome team building games. We will work together to list the group rules for the JOA Lounge. The Lounge will be open to JOA members throughout the conference so plan to stop by and chill out whenever you need to relax!<\/p>\n<h4>Building Social Connections with Others*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Melissa Dixon, PhD<\/strong>, University of Utah<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">This session will focus on working with the group on how to build social ties to promote meaningful connections with friends and significant others.\u00a0<em>This session is open only to JOA community members.\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<h4>Let\u2019s Talk About Feelings*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Melissa Dixon, PhD<\/strong>, University of Utah<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Back by popular demand, this session will focus on how feelings affect our bodies and minds. This will include an interactive discussion about strategies for learning to manage overwhelming emotions.<\/p>\n<h4>JOA Stump the Doctor*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Jacinda Sampson, MD, PhD<\/strong>, Stanford<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Stump the Doctor Sessions at the conference are an opportunity for community members to meet a leading expert in myotonic dystrophy and ask their most persistent, challenging questions.\u00a0<em>Can you stump the doctor?<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>Wellness Room &#8211;\u00a0<em>Sponsored by Harmony Biosciences<\/em><\/h3>\n<p>New to this year\u2019s conference is the Wellness Room. This room was open throughout both days of the conference and offered an opportunity for attendees to take a break from sessions, noise, crowds, etc.<\/p>\n<h3>Movement<\/h3>\n<p>All movement sessions in the Wellness Room are taught by instructors who have experience working with DM and\/or other neuromuscular disease communities.<\/p>\n<h4>Friday Morning &amp; Afternoon Chair Yoga*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Ellen Shapiro, C-IAYT<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">These hour-long movement sessions are for all levels and experience.<\/p>\n<h4>Focus on Breathing Techniques*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Lorna Jarret, D.H.Sc.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">This 45-minute session provides an overview on mindful breathing techniques.<\/p>\n<h4>Saturday Morning &amp; Afternoon Pilates, Gentle &amp; Chair*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Lorna Jarret, D.H.Sc.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">These hour-long movement sessions are for all levels and experiences.<\/p>\n<h3>Fireside Chats<\/h3>\n<p>Fireside chats were 45-minute-long discussions on a variety of topics with leading experts. These sessions are inclusive and welcoming and intended to provide a supportive environment for all to share their experiences.<\/p>\n<h4>Managing Activities of Daily Living*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Samar Muslemani, MOT., MSc. PhD<\/strong>, Universite de Sherbrooke<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Myotonic Dystrophy can impact all aspects of your life. This session focuses on the tools and resources available to live with DM. Whether you attended Samar\u2019s session on this topic earlier in the day, or missed it, this fireside chat is an excellent opportunity for everyone to get your questions answered and hear from fellow attendees.<\/p>\n<h4>Effective &amp; Empathic Communication*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Dedee Caplin, PhD<\/strong>, University of Utah<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">This session provides an excellent opportunity to explore ways of communicating with your workplace, healthcare team, friends, and family. Learn how to share your experiences with people who don\u2019t understand DM or its impact.<\/p>\n<h4>Clinical Trials &amp; Studies*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Nicholas Johnson, MD, MSci, FAAN<\/strong>, Virginia Commonwealth University<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Progress in DM research is full steam ahead, and there is a lot of hope for new treatments and a cure. Dr. Nick Johnson brought his expertise to a small group\u00a0discussion where attendees asked\u00a0questions about participating in clinical trials, natural history studies and more!<\/p>\n<h4>How to Raise Awareness for DM *<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Kevin Brennan<\/strong>, Bluebird Strategies<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Learn how you and your family can make a big impact in raising awareness for DM within your communities and local and national governments. Whether you joined MDF\u2019s Advocacy Day this year, or you\u2019re looking to help make change in DM, this session is a great opportunity to learn more about how you can get involved.<\/p>\n<h3>DM Professionals<\/h3>\n<p>Sessions specifically designed for clinicians, researchers, and industry experts. Session topics were developed based on direct feedback from professionals.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/professional-session-abstracts-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">Click here to view the DM Professional Session Abstracts.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/research-posters-2023-mdf-annual-conference\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the 2023 DM Research Poster Abstracts.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Presentations listed in order of appearance:<\/p>\n<h4>Involvement of Aberrant Splicing of the NFIX Transcription Factor in Transcriptome Changes in Muscles of DM Patients*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Krzysztof Sobczak, PhD<\/strong>, Instytut Biologii Molekularnej i Biotechnologii, Adam Mickiewicz University<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/toxic-rna-selective-screening-identify-drugs-targets-genetic-modifiers-myotonic\">Toxic RNA Selective Screening to Identify New Drugs, Drug Targets and Genetic Modifiers for Myotonic Dystrophy<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Kalak Reddy, PhD<\/strong>, State University of New York at Albany\u2019s RNA Institute<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/use-human-pluripotent-stem-cells-deciphering-myotonic-dystrophy-type-1\">Use of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells for Deciphering Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>C\u00e9cile Martinat, PhD<\/strong>, I-Stem &#8211; Institut des cellules Souches pour le Traitement et l&rsquo;Etude des maladies Monog\u00e9niques<\/p>\n<h4>Timing is Everything: Understanding Sleep Dysregulation in Myotonic Dystrophy*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Belinda Pinto, PhD<\/strong>, University of Florida at\u00a0Gainesville<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/age-related-corneal-disease-mediated-expanded-cug-repeat-rna\">Age-related Corneal Disease Mediated by Expanded CUG Repeat RNA<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Vinod Mootha, MD<\/strong>, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/genetic-modifiers-huntington-disease-biological-insights-and-therapeutic\">Genetic Modifiers of Huntington Disease: Biological Insights and Therapeutic Opportunities<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Darren Monckton, PhD<\/strong>, University of Glasgow<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/brain-disease-mechanisms-myotonic-dystrophy-and-why-neurons-arent-whole-story\">Brain Disease Mechanisms in Myotonic Dystrophy and Why Neurons Aren&rsquo;t the Whole Story<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Mario Gomes-Pereira, PhD<\/strong>, Sorbonne Universit\u00e9, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Myologie, Paris, France<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/accelerating-knowledge-research-poster-lightning-round-2023-mdf-annual-conference\">Accelerating Knowledge: Research Poster Lightning Round<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\">Moderated by:\u00a0<strong>Tom Cooper, MD<\/strong>, Baylor College of Medicine<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Johanna Hamel, MD<\/strong>, University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Janel Peterson<\/strong>,\u00a0Baylor College of Medicine<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Claudia Lennon<\/strong>,\u00a0The RNA Institute, State University of New York at Albany<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Laura Girard-C\u00f4t\u00e9<\/strong>,\u00a0Universit\u00e9 du Qu\u00e9bec \u00e0 Chicoutimi (UQAC), Canada<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Preeti Kumari, PhD<\/strong>, Massachusetts General Hospital<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Emily Davey<\/strong>,\u00a0University of Florida at Gainesville<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Curtis Nutter, PhD<\/strong>,\u00a0University of Florida at Gainesville<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Subodh Mishra, PhD<\/strong>, The RNA Institute, State University of New York at Albany<\/p>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Lily Cisco<\/strong>, University of Rochester<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/disease-severity-and-progression-myotonic-dystrophy-type-2\">Disease Severity and Progression in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Johanna Hamel, MD<\/strong>, University of Rochester Medical Center<\/p>\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.myotonic.org\/digital-academy\/insights-muscle-pathology-imaging-analysis-and-clinical-endpoints-myotonic\">Insights Into muscle Pathology: Imaging Analysis and Clinical Endpoints in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2<\/a><\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Araya Puwanant, MD, MS<\/strong>, Wake Forest University School of Medicine<\/p>\n<h4>Generation and Characterization of a DM2 BAC Mouse Model*<\/h4>\n<p class=\"rteindent1\"><strong>Avery Engelbrecht, Graduate AST-R<\/strong>, University of Florida at Gainesville<\/p>\n<h1>Thank You to Our Conference Sponsors<\/h1>\n<p>Special thanks to our Sponsors for helping make this event possible.\u00a0An additional thank you to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.aviditybiosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Avidity Biosciences<\/a>\u00a0for sponsoring Storytelling Impact Training for our community panelists and advocates.<\/p>\n<p>For questions on corporate sponsorship opportunities, please contact MDF at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:development@myotonic.org\">development@myotonic.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2>Lead Sponsor<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-12 col-md-6\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aviditybiosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/18_IDD-Avidity.png\" width=\"469\" height=\"264\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2>Diamond Sponsor<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-12 col-md-4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dyne-tx.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/16_IDD-Dyne.png\" width=\"367\" height=\"207\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2>Platinum Sponsors<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-12 col-md-4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pepgen.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/12_IDD-PepGen.png\" width=\"357\" height=\"201\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-12 col-md-4\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amo-pharma.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_AMO-Adj-meeting.jpg\" width=\"228\" height=\"128\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2>Gold Sponsor<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vrtx.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/5_Vertex-bronze.jpg\" width=\"304\" height=\"171\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2>Silver Sponsors<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.juvenatherapeutics.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Juvena-adj.png\" width=\"367\" height=\"207\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.harmonybiosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/6_IDD-Harmony.png\" width=\"330\" height=\"186\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/locanabio.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Locana-bronze.jpg\" width=\"337\" height=\"190\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row\">\n<h2>Bronze Sponsors<\/h2>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.expansionrx.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/5_IDD-Expansion.png\" width=\"272\" height=\"153\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"http:\/\/grittgene.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/6_IDD-GrittGene.jpg\" width=\"327\" height=\"184\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arthexbiotech.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/1_ArthexAdj-meeting.png\" width=\"204\" height=\"115\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.astellas.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Astellas-Adj-meeting.png\" width=\"282\" height=\"159\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lupin-neurosciences.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2_Lupin-bronze.jpg\" width=\"316\" height=\"178\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sanofi.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/3_Sanofi-adj-2.png\" width=\"305\" height=\"172\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-12 col-sm-6 col-md-4 col-lg-3\"><a><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Andoni-Adj.jpg\" width=\"266\" height=\"150\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"field field--name-field-event-date field--type-daterange field--label-above\">\n<div class=\"field__label\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Thank you so much for joining us in Washington DC, and online, for the 2023 MDF Annual Conference! <\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":18758,"parent":0,"template":"","class_list":["post-18757","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/events\/18757","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/events"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/events"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18758"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/myotonic.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18757"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}