SUMMER 2019

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Overview & Speakers:

This webinar reviews how the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (Global) has worked with Self-Advocates, Congressional Champions, Scientists and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to increase Down syndrome research funding at the NIH for the first time in nearly twenty years. Key takeaways from this presentation include:

• The importance of research and medical care in elongating life and improving the quality of life

• The history of Down syndrome being one of the least funded genetic conditions at the NIH

• Global’s AMAZING progress – science and NIH funding

• The Challenges still ahead

• What Self-Advocates and families can do to support life-changing and life-saving research and medical care for people with Down syndrome

Michelle Sie Whitten, MA

Michelle Sie Whitten, MA is the Co-Founder, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (Global). Global is dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through Research, Medical Care, Education, and Advocacy. Prior to her career in the non-profit sector, Michelle was a cable TV pioneer in East Asia working for Liberty Media Corporation and Starz Encore. Her academic career was focused on international security and diplomacy and she holds a Masters degree and business certificate from Harvard University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors degree from Tufts University and studied Mandarin Chinese and Women Studies at Peking University. Michelle is married to Tom, a British curator of Chinese contemporary art and they have two adorable kids, one of whom has Down syndrome.

Kevin Brennan

Kevin Brennan partners with clients to craft and execute strategies involving public policy and government advocacy, with a particular focus on the health and biosciences, renewable energy, insurance and financial services, and food and agribusiness industries. Kevin draws from his experience as legislative staff for three Members of Congress and in senior government affairs positions at Amgen and the Arthritis Foundation to help clients advance their federal advocacy objectives.

Powerpoint Presentation: Click to Download

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