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2nd NATIONAL SMS CONFERENCE (continued from page 1)
kids to interact, play games and watch videos. A parent panel led a spirited discussion about family and community issues. At an informal breakfast on the last day of the conference, there was an open discussion of PRISMS and its membership. In a large meeting room, people sat at round tables eating and talking about what they liked and what they needed from the organization. Once again, it was a time and place where no one had to explain an SMS behavior or moment!
Information, ideas and contacts from the conference will enrich the work of PRISMS in the year ahead. We are especially grateful to the hard work of conference chairperson Nina Kelly. And the following are just a few are just a few of the distinguished group of podium participants:
Ann Smith, M.A. and Ellen Magenis,M.D., who provided a rich framework of history and a detailed research outlook;
Lorraine Potocki, M.D. from Baylor College of Medicine, who overviewed the physical features of SMS and discussed research;
James Lupski, M.D., Ph.D. from Baylor presented the physical features of SMS and reviewed the past and current research projects.
Sarah Elsea, Ph.D. from Michigan State University, who discussed molecular advances in understanding SMS;
Elisabeth Dykens Ph.D., and Robert Hodapp, Ph.D., experts in behavioral issues and family stress;
Brenda Finucane, M.S. from Elwyn Training/Research Institute who discussed how psychiatric diagnoses relate to SMS;
A.J.Allen, M.D. of the University of Chicago and Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals who explained basic principles of pharmacology relative to SMS.
Finally, we want to thank all the parents, family members and supporters who participated, and those who could not come but supported us from a distance. We will continue to share with you the insights and ideas the conference offered. Check out the website at www.smithmagenis.org for future updates and to keep in touch.
Thanks to all,
Connie Bessette
PRISMS president
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