Record Number of Scholarships Offered Thanks to Community Support
ATLANTA, GA, July 10-13 — More than 640 individuals from 42 states and 10 countries are expected to attend the Marfan Foundation’s 40th Conference, taking place July 10–13 in Atlanta. Hosted in association with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory Healthcare, the event will bring together people living with Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS), Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (VEDS), Stickler syndrome, and related conditions, along with their families and medical professionals.
Throughout the event, attendees will have access to world-renowned experts, the latest research and treatment options, practical tools for living well alongside a genetic-aortic condition, and invaluable connections with others in the community.
This year marks a milestone in advancing access to quality care: a record-breaking number of scholarship applications were received and a similar record 185 scholarships were offered to help offset registration and lodging costs for individuals who applied due to financial need — thanks to the generosity of the Foundation’s supporters.
“The Foundation has always recognized the need for providing scholarships because of the great value that the Conference offers to individuals and families – from the youngest child who attends through teens and adults. As such, we have a long-term commitment to our scholarship program,” said Marfan Foundation Chief Operating Officer Judy Gibaldi.
Gibaldi credited the Foundation’s ability to increase Conference access to community support.
“We are thrilled to have offered so many scholarships – this is really due to the tremendous generosity of our faithful donors who also recognize the power and impact and Conference,” said Gibaldi.
The Conference kicks off with a two-day Health Fair, July 10–11, at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, offering echocardiograms, eye exams, lung function testing, and other evaluations led by medical experts from across the country.
Of the current registrants, 221- about 35% – are first-timers. About 134 teens and children are enrolled in age-specific programs.
The General Session on Saturday, July 12, will feature six expert-led presentations with three question and answer panels as well as a community-led personal perspectives panel. In the afternoon, attendees can choose from 32 breakout workshops led by medical professionals and community leaders. On Sunday, July 13, an additional 30 workshops will focus on mental health, quality of life, and peer-to-peer support.
There is still time to register: marfan.org/conference.
The Marfan Foundation is a nonprofit organization that saves lives and improves the quality of life of individuals with genetic aortic and vascular conditions including Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, and Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Our vision is a world in which everyone with genetic aortic and vascular conditions can live their best life.