The MENA Congress for Rare Diseases is hosting the 1st Angelman Symposium in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region in Abu Dhabi this May. This event is the largest gathering for rare disease research in the region and brings international experts to one place. We’re honored to have Amelia Beatty and Sally Asfour speak at this inaugural event. Amelia is the secretary of the board of directors for FAST Headquarters and Sally Asfour is the treasurer for FAST Australia.

Check out the event details and read our Q&A with Amelia and Sally:

FAST is thrilled to announce a new FAST-TRAC grant collaboration with Dr. Alvin Huang at Brown University, aimed at addressing oligodendroglial dysfunction prevalent in Angelman syndrome by targeting estrogen receptor signaling in both in vitro (cell) and in vivo (animal) models. 

Learn more:

Thinking about enrolling your loved one in a clinical trial can be both exciting and overwhelming. What do you need to know? Which studies and trials are an option for my loved one? How would we enroll?

FAST has resources to help you better understand both the clinical trial process and the clinical trials that are currently underway. Understanding the process and the options will enable you to make informed and empowered decisions for your loved one.

Read more about clinical trials:

As one of 7,000 rare diseases in the world, we know it takes an army of professionals to move the needle toward an approved therapeutic. Lauren Black, PhD, Distinguished Scientist at Charles River Laboratories and member of the FAST Science Advisory Board, shares her perspective on FAST and the future of Angelman syndrome.

Read Lauren’s message:

Congratulations to our FAST Athlete, Rhian Adams, for winning two distinguished awards at the 2024 REPS UAE Fitness Industry Awards Gala — Fitness Influencer of the Year and Personal Trainer of the Year! The awards provide an opportunity for individuals and businesses to be recognized for their contribution and dedication to their work, and the health, fitness and wellness of the UAE population.

Rhian is the mother of Seren and Samson, who lives with Angelman syndrome.

Follow Rhian’s journey on Instagram and get inspired!