Biennial MSUD Symposiums

Parent interest in support and information prompted the first MSUD Symposium for families and professionals in 1982. It was at this first Symposium that the families discussed the need for an organized support group. Symposiums are held biennially, are well attended, and are usually planned by the families with the help and support of their medical clinics. About 50% of the Family Support Group membership attended the 2018 symposium even though cost and travel impose significant barriers to attendance.

Unfortunately, the symposiums scheduled for 2021 and 2023 were canceled due to the Covid pandemic. These decisions were not arrived at lightly. The MSUD Family Support Group Board of Directors was concerned about our ability to safely bring our community together. Out of concern for the health and well-being of all and after weighing our options, we decided that it was in the best interest of this community to cancel these in-person events.

Our next symposium will take place at the Hyatt Regency in Reston, VA on June 27-29, 2024. This location is near the Dulles International Airport. Also, the Metro Town Center station is located close by and should be open by June, 2024. We will update you when additional information (hotel rates, symposia agenda, etc.) becomes available.

The most recent symposium, held near Pittsburgh, PA  in June, 2108, was attended by 232 people. Attendees were from 22 of the 50 United States and 7 countries and included 47 individuals with MSUD ranging in age from 7 months to 47 years and 15 people that had undergone liver transplantations. Also in attendance were medical professionals who are:

• Engaged in the daily care of MSUD patients and families.
• Conducting research on the causes and potential avenues of treatment and cure for MSUD
• Providers of necessary medical foods necessary for MSUD patients.

Presentations from the 2016 and 2018 symposiums can be viewed by clicking the links below.

Aside from research, the biennial symposium is the single most expensive activity funded by the MSUD Family Support Group. Please consider a donation so that we can continue with this high quality and very worthwhile experience for the MSUD community.