This Small Step Is A Giant Leap

Over the years I've been critical of the International ALS MND Symposium not embracing patient attendance and participation.  Today, we see a small step forward in a direction to fix that problem.

The Symposium is an old-school scientific meeting.  The ALS topics discussed are broad and very
deep.  https://www.mndassociation.org/research/international-symposium/

In the past, if anyone with ALS has chosen to attend, it has required payment of the substantial registration fee (plus a separate fee for an accompanying caregiver).  Add travel and hotel expenses, and there has been a large financial barrier between people with ALS and the Symposium.

This year there is a new program to help mitigate some of the financial barriers --

https://alsmndpatientfellows.wordpress.com

This is a giant leap toward having people with ALS in the midst of some important discussions.

Anyone with ALS who is interested in the science now has a chance to be in the center of the newest science in Boston in December.  This is a big meeting typically filled with big players in ALS research and with big announcements.

People with ALS are notoriously bright and high achievers.  Finally, a step has been taken that can make them part of the scientific discourse.

Please apply if you have ALS and are interested in the science.