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Your donation DOUBLED through April 30 thanks to anonymous donors who pledged to match your gift! DONATE NOW!
March 27-29, 2025
We invite you to be part of the largest Ataxia gathering in the world to learn, share, network, and have fun at this year’s Annual Ataxia Conference: Partnering for Progress!
Choose how you’d like to join us at the 2025 Annual Ataxia Conference!
In-person registration covers admission to all functions at AAC, including general sessions, a welcome reception, Birds of a Feather sessions, the exhibitor hall, and the Saturday banquet dinner as well as complimentary access to the virtual page.
Virtual registration covers access to the online page which will include live-streamed general sessions and virtual birds of a feather sessions
*Early Bird registration will end 1/24/2025. Advance registration for $350 for non-industry attendees will end 3/21/2025. After that, on-site registration is available for $400 for non-industry attendees. No refunds of registration fees for cancellations after 3/4/2025. Registration at the door is not recommended.
The 2025 Annual Ataxia Conference will be held at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino at 3667 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV.
Guests of Planet Hollywood can enjoy 2 separate pools with relaxing poolside daybeds or cabanas and dining at more than 20 restaurants. Guests can also shop, dine, and enjoy live entertainment at over 200 outlets inside the hotel’s Miracle Mile Shops.
Planet Hollywood Las Vegas is a very large facility. Please allow yourself extra time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the hotel and area.
NAF will offer a discounted group rate on a first-come, first-served basis. The group rate will be available while inventory lasts until March 4, 2025.
Non-ADA rooms must be booked directly through Planet Hollywood. Starting on 11/20/2024, standard room reservations can be made online or by phone.
To book online, go to https://book.passkey.com/gt/220122849?gtid=8f6c3c5718bb4d9a0b87a348ccb30f5
To book by phone, call (866) 919-7472 and request our special rate under the group name “National Ataxia Foundation.”
ADA Room Reservations
ADA rooms are limited and cannot be reserved through the hotel. They must be requested through NAF. ADA room reservations will be accepted beginning at 12pm CST on November 20, 2024. Email your request to kari@ataxia.org or call 763-553-0093 and leave a voicemail with your name and contact information to be added to the waiting list for an ADA room. Calls and emails will be time-stamped and processed in the order they were received. ADA room reservations will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For questions about ADA room availability, contact Kari Brooks, Community Services Coordinator at 763-553-0093 or kari@ataxia.org.
The width of the bathroom door in the standard sleeping rooms is 32-33″
Hotel Information
Welcome to the LVCVA’s new Show Your Badge & Save Program!
The Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority has recently introduced a new Show Your Badge & Save Program: VEGAS UNLOCKED!
LVCVA has negotiated some fantastic discounts around Las Vegas exclusive to conventions and meetings visitors.
Delegates can enjoy easy access to discounts on dining, entertainment, attractions, tours and more, ensuring both a productive and unforgettable stay in the world’s No. 1 tradeshow destination!
Attendees & Exhibitors should visit www.vegasmeansbusiness.com/planning-tools/offers/ to sign up to receive instant access to VEGAS UNLOCKED benefits. The sign up option is available under the list of participating businesses. It is a black box across the screen that says “Attendees: Sign Up Here to Access These Discounts Now.” Be sure to select “Annual Ataxia Conference” from the event drop down list, to ensure you receive access to deals specific to your show. Offer access will be instantly delivered via email. There are no apps to download!
If you need ADA equipment you are encouraged to bring those items with you or make arrangements to rent equipment locally. NAF is unable to provide ADA equipment. Be sure to rent or request any needed equipment from Planet Hollywood or a local provider in advance to be accommodated based on availability.
The service dog relief area at Planet Hollywood is located just outside of the front desk doors to the left. Please pick up after your service animal.
Valet parking and self-parking are both available 24/7.
Valet Parking Rates
Flat Rate Per Day:
From Las Vegas Blvd., turn onto E. Harmon. At the first light, turn left into the Valet Parking entrance and follow the signs.
Self-Parking Rates
Weekday Hourly Rate Per Day (Mon-Thu):
Weekend Hourly Rate Per Day (Fri-Sun):
-Special event rates may apply.
-Nevada ID’s not accepted.
-Hotel guests’ fees must be billed to room prior to checkout
*Only the first 30 minutes are free in the Harmon Avenue garage.
The walk from the parking garage to the front desk in Planet Hollywood is ½ mile. When arriving, Planet Hollywood recommends driving up to the front to unload your bags with the bell desk before self-parking or valet-parking. After parking, check in at the front desk and collect your bags from the bell desk.
Oversized Vehicles
The clearance of the Parking Garage is 6’ 8’’.
There is a much smaller parking lot, that is first come first served basis, off of the main Planet Hollywood’s main drive that can accommodate smaller U-Hauls, larger sized trucks/vans, etc. For anything larger there is not any oversized parking at Planet Hollywood, Paris or Horseshoe.
Local Airport:
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
5757 Wayne Newton Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89119
Visit www.visitlasvegas.com and www.vegasmeansbusiness.com/planning-tools/special-needs-visitors/ for a complete list of attractions and planning information.
In Las Vegas the average high temperature in March is 69 degrees and the average low temperature is 44 degrees.
The following information can be used as a guide as you plan your stay and transportation needs in Las Vegas. The National Ataxia Foundation does not endorse products, services, or manufacturers. Those mentioned are included for your information only. NAF assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.
To help you with planning, NAF encourages you to access the following links to important websites that will inform you of your rights and your responsibilities when traveling by air. Go to NAF’s website resources page at www.ataxia.org/general-references/ and select the “Accessible Travel & Recreation” option. You will be directed to a list of links such as Transportation Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Passengers requiring any in-flight assistance for your arrival or departure flights should contact their airline before traveling. Airlines will generally work with passengers to try to meet their in-flight needs. Please visit the TSA Cares website www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support for contact information to request screening assistance, scooter assistance, service animal assistance, and any other accessible services that you may need at the airports you utilize during your travels. For your safety and for the safety of other travelers please do not leave your baggage unattended at any airport you visit during your travels. Video: How To Navigate an Airport in a Wheelchair
Detailed information about services and facilities at the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to assist travelers with disabilities can be found at www.harryreidairport.com/SpecialAssistance. The distance from the gates to baggage claim and ground transportation varies greatly depending on which airline you are arriving on. The maps on the airport’s website can give you an idea about the distance to baggage claim and ground transportation for the airline you are utilizing. Sunday and Monday are the heaviest departure days at the airport. If you are departing on one of these days, it is recommended to arrive 30 minutes to an hour earlier than you normally would for your flight.
Many services such as skycaps, sighted guides, and wheelchairs are provided by the airlines. Please contact your airline to reserve a wheelchair.
Lift Equipped Group Shuttles
To get information regarding accessible shuttle transportation please contact the shuttle companies directly that are found on the Harry Reid International Airport website www.harryreidairport.com/SpecialAssistance/TransportationServices.
Taxis
Accessible taxi services are available at both terminals. A designated area is signed for travelers with disabilities. Taxi services are available on the east side of baggage claim, outside door exits 1 – 4 in Terminal 1. At Terminal 3, taxi services are located outside on Level Zero. There are 20 loading locations on the west end of the building and 10 loading locations on the east side to accommodate international travelers. Taxi services are also available at the Harry Reid Rent-A-Car Center.
Paratransit
If you are certified to ride paratransit, bring your certification and you will be allowed to ride for up to 21 days without a Nevada certification. Visit the RTC website www.rtcsnv.com/transit/paratransit/ or Call (702) 228-4800 one to three days in advance to schedule rides. The RTC Paratransit Shuttle Service is available by reservation at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The Terminal 1 shuttle stop is just outside the doors on Level Zero and the Terminal 3 stop is located on Level Zero, outside door exit 55.
Ride Share Services
Uber and Lyft do have accessible ride options that can be selected when booking your ride. Accessible rides are limited so wait times for accessible rides tend to be longer. The ride-share pick-up area is in the parking garage – valet area. The distance to the ride share pick-up area is further to get to than the taxi or shuttle pick up areas.
Monorail
Hop on the Las Vegas Monorail and experience a convenient, state-of-the-art alternative to traveling the world-famous Las Vegas Strip – in 15 minutes or less! Bally’s / Paris Las Vegas Station is located at Bally’s with access to Paris Las Vegas located next door. You can reach the station by heading toward the pool area through the Bally’s Avenue Shops. The monorail does not go to the airport. Visit www.lvmonorail.com/ for schedules and ticket prices.
The following information can be used as a guide as you plan your stay in Las Vegas. The National Ataxia Foundation does not endorse products, services, or manufacturer. Those mentioned below are included for your information only. The NAF assumes no liability for the use or contents of any product or service mentioned.
Wheelchair Van Rental
Ability Center
(702) 434-3030 Fax: (702) 434-3014
www.abilitycenter.com/wheelchair-accessible-van-rentals/
Accessible Vans
(702)536-1842
www.accessiblevans.com/wheelchair-vans-rental-las-vegas-nv.php
Mobility Works of Las Vegas
(702) 876-9606
www.mobilityworks.com/mobilityworks-locations/las-vegas-nv.php
WHEELERS
Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport
(800) 456-1371
wheelersvanrentals.com/US/nevada-wheelchair-van-rentals/
Personal Care Attendants
Please note that NAF is unable to provide attendant care services. Due to liabilities and health concerns, NAF and hotel employees are not able to provide this service. Please do not attend without making arrangements for an attendant if you need one.
Comfort Keepers Las Vegas
2881 Business Park Court, Suite 226
Las Vegas, Nevada 89128
(702)381-1570 Fax: (702)452-1001
www.comfortkeepers.com/office-142
Nurse Core
4423 W Flamingo Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 458-1137 Fax: (702)458-1423
www.nursecore.com/
Professional Healthcare Services
(702) 362-0711
professionalhealthcareserviceslv.com
Right At Home
(702) 367-3400
www.rightathome.net/lasvegas/
Childcare
If you need childcare, please make arrangements prior to attending the conference. Please note that NAF is unable to provide childcare services. Due to liabilities and health concerns, NAF staff or volunteers and hotel employees are not able to provide childcare services.
Nannies & Housekeepers U.S.A.
(702) 451-0021
nahusa.com/
Accessible Equipment, Wheelchair, and Scooter Rentals
Planet Hollywood Bell Desk
702-785-5445 or 702-785-5118
Desert Medical Equipment
3555 W. Reno Ave Suite F
Las Vegas, NV 89118
(702) 876-9171
www.dmelv.com/
Freedom Medical Supply & Equipment
8868 South Eastern Ave
Las Vegas NV 89123
(702) 386-9997 Fax: (702) 228-9996
www.freedommedicalsupply.com/
Get Around Mobility
3111 South Valley Blvd Suite U108
Las Vegas, NV
(702) 637-0008
www.getaroundmobility.com/
Las Vegas Scooters
4350 S. Arville St. Bld E Suite #40
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 610-4905 (866)775-4381
www.702scooters.com/
Scootaround Inc
(888)441-7575
scootaround.com/
ScooterBug
(800) 726-8284
www.scooterbug.com/lasvegas/
Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy
3758 S Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV
(702) 262-9028
www.cvs.com
Walgreens
3765 Las Vegas Blvd S
Las Vegas, NV
(702) 739-9645
www.walgreens.com
ADA Assistance
Tammy Counts – Accessibility & ADA Coordinator
TCounts@lasvegasnevada.gov
(702) 229-5055
Nevada Relay Service – Dial 711
www.lasvegasnevada.gov/Government/Departments/Human-Resources/Accessibility
Conference Deductions by attendees
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-irbs/irb00-19.pdf
Rev. Rul. 2000–24, page 963 (In part)
Rev. Rul. 2000–24, page 963 (In part) Medical expenses
Amounts paid by an individual for expenses of admission and transportation to a medical conference relating to the chronic disease of the individual’s dependent are deductible as medical expenses under section 213 of the Code (subject to the limitations of that section), if the costs are primarily for and essential to the medical care of the dependent. The cost of meals and lodging while attending the conference are not deductible as medical expenses under Code section 213.
Your data privacy and security are important to us. When you register for this event, NAF will process your data in accordance with our legitimate interests for hosting an industry event and for being a community-based organization. Please review NAF’s privacy policy, including how to exercise your rights under GDPR.
NAF intends to take photographs and video of this event for us in NAF news and promotional material, in print, electronic, and other media, including the NAF website. By participating in the event, you grant NAF the right to use any image, photograph, voice, or likeness, without limitation, in its promotional materials and publicity efforts.
We value the participation of each member of the community and endeavor to deliver an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Conference participants are expected to conduct themselves with integrity, courtesy, and respect for others and maintain the highest level of professionalism at all conference programs and events, whether officially sponsored by NAF or not. All attendees, speakers, organizers, volunteers, vendors, and staff at any NAF event are required to observe the following Code of Conduct:
NAF is dedicated to providing a harassment-free conference experience for everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, or religion. We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. All communication should be appropriate for a professional audience including people of diverse backgrounds and cultures. Sexual language and imagery are not appropriate for the conference. Be kind to others. Do not insult or defame participants. Harassment in any form, such as sexist, racist, or exclusionary jokes are not condoned at NAF events. Participants violating these rules may be asked to the leave the conference at the sole discretion of NAF.
The purpose of Birds of a Feather sessions is to provide a safe space for patients and family to connect with each other and expert facilitators. We welcome approved clinical observers. To ensure that the limited time in these sessions is fulfilling this valuable purpose to attendees we ask that all attendees agree to this Code of Conduct.
As an Ataxia patient organization, our mission is to find treatments and cures for the Ataxias. We believe creating a collaborative research environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion for all our stakeholders and partners is essential to achieving this mission. We are committed to equality of opportunity and insist that all those engaging in our community are treated with dignity and respect. We will ensure this at AAC by fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusion and celebrates the contributions of all.
Infectious disease outbreaks, such as COVID-19 and Monkey Pox, can be unexpected and evolving situations. We will monitor any health emergency situations closely. At present, we are planning and preparing for an in-person conference. We do have contingency plans that will allow a quick response to changing conditions. These include postponing the event or pivoting to a fully virtual conference. We recommend that attendees do not book non-refundable travel. In addition, health safety precautions may be implemented at the discretion of NAF. Examples of safety precautions are social distancing and requiring face masks. If safety precautions are implemented, you agree to abide by them while attending conference functions. committed to equality of opportunity and insist that all those engaging in our community are treated with dignity and respect. We will ensure this at AAC by fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusion and celebrates the contributions of all.
We understand that registration and travel costs can be too great of a financial burden for some. We want everyone to have an opportunity to experience AAC. NAF will be awarding a limited number of travel grants for the in-person event and registration scholarships for the virtual event to those with Ataxia who have a financial need. Adults or children with Ataxia are eligible to apply. Questions regarding grants and scholarships, contact Pat Morel at Pat@ataxia.org.
Travel Grants and Scholarships are made possible by generous donors to NAF. Thank you for helping us cover a portion of the costs for those in need!
Times listed are PT. General sessions will be available for virtual and in-person attendees.
Printable agendas are available for download here:
In-Person Agenda | Virtual Live Stream Agenda
Please note: Both in-person and virtual attendees are encouraged to attend their virtual Birds of a Feather session.
Session Description
These smaller breakout sessions are interactive discussions for smaller groups by Ataxia type or other affiliation. Choose the session that best fits your situation. If you have Ataxia, choose the session for your type of Ataxia. If you are not sure of your type of Ataxia, attend the Unknown With Family History or the Unknown Without Family History session. If you do not have Ataxia yourself, try the Spouses and Partners Without Ataxia, Family Members Without Ataxia, or a Parents sessions.
Please note: Mature subject matter may be discussed. These sessions are not intended for children aged 12 and under.
Session Description
These smaller breakout sessions are interactive discussions for smaller groups by Ataxia type or other affiliation. Choose the session that best fits your situation. If you have Ataxia, choose the session for your type of Ataxia. If you are not sure of your type of Ataxia, attend the Unknown With Family History or the Unknown Without Family History session. If you do not have Ataxia yourself, try the Spouses and Partners Without Ataxia, Family Members Without Ataxia, or a Parents sessions.
Please note: Mature subject matter may be discussed. These sessions are not intended for children aged 12 and under.
Come here to check in to receive your attendee badge (required to be worn at all event functions) and attendee gift bag.
For In-Person Attendees Only
Visit the exhibit hall to learn about research opportunities and other vendors.
For In-Person Attendees Only
Join us to learn about what to expect and how to plan your days.
For In-Person Attendees Only
Visit the exhibit hall to learn about research opportunities and other vendors.
For In-Person Attendees Only
8:30 AM – Daily Welcome
Speakers: Andrew Rosen, Joel Sutherland, & Dana Mauro
9:00 AM – Newly Diagnosed & Prepping for a Neurologist Visit
Speaker: Odinachi Oguh, MD
Birds of a Feather are smaller break-out sessions arranged by type of Ataxia or other affiliation, such as being a spouse or partner that does not have Ataxia. These sessions are group discussions facilitated by an Ataxia expert.
Instructor: Jennifer Keller, PT, MS
Instructor: Julie Renato, MM, LPMT, MT-BC
1:30 PM – Medications & Diet
Speaker: Susan Perlman, MD
2:00 PM -Assistive Technology & Strategies to Mitigate Speech & Swallowing Impairments in Ataxia
Speaker: Caitlin Cloud, MA, CCC-SLP
Birds of a Feather are smaller break-out sessions arranged by type of Ataxia or other affiliation, such as being a spouse or partner that does not have Ataxia. These sessions are group discussions facilitated by an Ataxia expert.
Instructor: Jennifer Keller, PT, MS
Instructor: Julie Renato, MM, LPMT, MT-BC
For In-Person Attendees Only
All registered conference attendees are welcome to attend. Admittance to this event and the light appetizers that will be served are included in your registration fee. A cash bar will be available. You are encouraged to prepare contact cards to distribute at this event. Contact cards should only include information you wish to distribute. Information on contact cards may include your name, email address, state, and diagnosis/affiliation. Repeat attendees are encouraged to welcome a First-Time Attendee.
6:00 PM Remarks from Biohaven & Moving Forward
Visit the exhibit hall to learn about research opportunities and other vendors.
For In-Person Attendees Only
8:30 AM – Daily Welcome
Speakers: Joel Sutherland & Dana Mauro
8:35 AM – Drug Development and Moving Science Forward in Rare Disease
Speaker: Robin Avila, PhD
8:45 AM – Accessing Local Resources
Speakers: Sandi Brettler, MSN, RN, CCRN
9:15 AM – Cognition & Mood in Ataxia
Speakers: Lucille Carriere, PhD & Shehroo Budumjee, PhD
10:15 AM – Home Modification & AOL Independence
Speaker: Madisen Redar, MOT, OTR/L
11:00 AM – Rehabilitation Strategies & Mobility Devices
Speaker: Kayla Katke, PT, DPT
1:00 PM – Panel Discussion: Living with Ataxia
Facilitator: Celeste Suart, PhD – Panelists: Kyle Bryant, Daniel Gavern, & Ellie Martin
1:45 PM – Genetic Testing
Speakers: Meron Azage, MS, CGC & Mary Hogan, MS, MPH
3:00 PM – Research Update
Speaker: Lauren Moore, PhD
3:45 PM – How We Win This Battle & Defeat Ataxia
Speakers: Andrew Rosen, Joel Sutherland, Jon Wegman, Meg Hanna, & Rich McCutchen
4:15 PM-Closing Remarks/Awards Ceremony
Speakers: Dana Mauro & Andrew Rosen, with Guest Speaker – Bill Nye
For In-Person Attendees Only
Room: Celebrity 1-5
What better way to end the 2024 AAC than with a Banquet! We look forward to a wonderful dinner together and a fun evening of socializing. When you arrive at the conference, please make sure you receive your name badge at the registration area if you plan to attend. The cost of the banquet is included in your registration fee, so you don’t want to miss it! Beverages will be available at a cash bar. The banquet includes a buffet dinner. Seating will begin promptly at 7pm. There will not be assigned seating.
Keynote Speaker: Jacob Thompson
Birds of a Feather are smaller break-out sessions arranged by type of Ataxia or other affiliation, such as being a spouse or partner that does not have Ataxia. These sessions are group discussions facilitated by an Ataxia expert. The Birds of a Feather options at the 2024 Annual Ataxia Conference are listed below:
Below are the topics that will be covered in general or breakout sessions.
Schedule is subject to change.
NAF invites world-leading Ataxia researchers and physicians to present at AAC. Check out our lineup of industry experts!
NAF Chief Scientific Officer
NAF Patient Engagement Manager
NAF Chief Executive Officer
NAF VP of Development
NAF Development Manager
NAF Development Coordinator
NAF Development Manager
We’re looking for partners to support 2025 AAC and help us bring this impactful program to the Ataxia community! Thank you to our sponsors who have already committed to supporting this event!
Contact Rich McCutchen at rich@ataxia.org for more information.
AAC attendees enjoy visiting the Ataxia Marketplace to learn about products, services, Ataxia clinics, and research opportunities. For our hybrid event, we have in-person and virtual-only exhibit packages available.
Contact Rich McCutchen at rich@ataxia.org for more information.
If you have other questions about AAC, please contact NAF at naf@ataxia.org for more information or call us at 763-553-0020.
Our generous donors help us fund promising Ataxia research and offer support services to people with Ataxia. Your gift today will help us continue to deliver on our mission to improve the lives of persons affected by Ataxia.
Join for FREE today! Become a part of the community that is working together to find a cure. As a member you will receive access to the latest Ataxia news with our e-newsletter and Generations publication.
