20th MSUD Symposium was a Success!

Hyatt Regency, Reston, VA

June 27-29, 2024

 

We are thrilled to share the highlights from the 20th MSUD Symposium, held at the beautiful Hyatt Regency in Reston, VA. The event brought together families, researchers, and medical professionals to discuss advancements in MSUD research and care. We had about 200 attendees, including families and professionals from over 20 US states and six other countries. Among them were 40 individuals with MSUD, ranging from six months to 55 years old, and 8 people who have had liver transplants. We were also pleased to welcome 12 families attending the symposium for the first time.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

 

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, without whom this event would not have been possible. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the MSUD community. We would especially like to thank Nutricia for their financial contributions to making this symposium possible.

 

Summary of Sessions and Panel Discussions

The symposium included a diverse range of sessions and panel discussions aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of MSUD. Sessions covered topics such as new research findings, innovative treatments, patient care strategies, and the latest in nutritional management. Experts from various fields presented their work, sharing insights into the genetic, metabolic, and clinical aspects of MSUD. The panels featured engaging discussions on patient experiences, caregiver challenges, and the future direction of MSUD research and advocacy. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with leading scientists, clinicians, and fellow community members, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and support.

 

Event Highlights and Photo Gallery

We captured many memorable moments during the symposium. We also had over ten exhibitors talking about MSUD and its impact on families.Below are some photos showcasing the fun and camaraderie shared by attendees.

 

Speaker Presentations

To see the PowerPoint presentations made by the speakers, press here!

See Presentations

Special Thanks

A special thank you to the presenters, panelists, and volunteers who made the symposium a success! Your dedication and hard work are greatly appreciated. A heartfelt thank you to the organizers of the symposium:

  • Sandy Bulcher – USF Travel Coordinator and Symposium Organizer
  • Denise L. Kolivoski, MBA – USF Travel Coordinator and Symposium Organizer
  • Dr. Karen Dolins, RDN, Sarah Keyrouz, Taryn Kessel – Agenda
  • Ed Fischler – Recording
  • Michelle Flanagan – Low Protein Menu
  • Zulma Santos – Registration
  • Deb Fall & Whitney Trump – Childcare


Leadership Contributions

We also extend our gratitude to the leadership team for their contributions to the symposium:

  • Executive Director: Denise L. Kolivoski, MBA
  • President: Sandy Bulcher
  • Vice President: Ed Fischler
  • Treasurer: Dave Bulcher
  • Secretary: Dr. Karen Dolins, RDN
  • Board Member: Jordann Coleman
  • Board Member: Herb Foster
  • Board Member: Ivan Martin


MSUD Science Advisory Board

A special thank you to the members of the MSUD Science Advisory Board for their invaluable support:

  • Dr. Lindsay Burrage Assoc. Professor, Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine
  • Dr. Irini Manoli Clinician Associate Investigator, Organic Acid Research Section, Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, NIH
  • Dr. Tilla Worgall Assoc. Professor of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center
  • Dr. David Fischler Scientist, Xyzagen
  • Dr. Dan Wang Assistant Professor, University of Massachusetts
  • Dr. Andrea Gropman Division Chief, Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Neurogenetics, Children’s National Hospital
  • Dr. Richard Wynn Associate Professor, U.T. Southwestern Medical Center
  • Dr. Kevin Strauss Medical Director, Clinic for Special Children

If you enjoyed the symposium or couldn’t attend but still want to show your support, please consider making a donation. The symposium is the largest expense for the MSUD Family Support Group, crucial for our mission of education, support, and advocacy. Your contributions are essential to sustaining this important work. To donate, visit www.msud-support.org and click the donate button. Checks can be mailed to Dave Bulcher, Treasurer, at 958 Medinah Terrace, Columbus, Ohio, 43235. Thank you for your support!

The symposium featured a diverse array of sessions and panel discussions that explored the latest research, innovative treatments, and best practices in patient care for MSUD. Experts from various fields shared their knowledge on the genetic, metabolic, and clinical aspects of MSUD, fostering an environment of learning and collaboration. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with leading scientists, clinicians, and community members, enhancing their understanding and support networks. Special thanks are extended to the organizers, leadership team, MSUD Science Advisory Board, presenters, panelists, and volunteers whose dedication made the event a success. We look forward to seeing you at the next symposium!