Double your impact during the Annual Ataxia Research Drive! Donate before December 31st to have your gift matched! LEARN MORE!
Double your impact during the Annual Ataxia Research Drive! Donate before December 31st to have your gift matched! LEARN MORE!
NAF hosts one of the largest Ataxia gatherings in the world – the Annual Ataxia Conference (AAC). At the conference we learn, share, network, and have fun! The 2019 AAC was held in Las Vegas, NV on March 29-30, 2019. It was titled, “Ataxia: A Treatable Disease.” This theme was woven throughout the conference sessions. Our goal was to help others learn the best treatments for Ataxia.
The AAC is where some of NAF’s most important life-changing work is realized. Our goal is to bring people impacted by ataxia together to empower them with resources and a message of hope. This is the heart of NAF. The NAF exists to provide a sense of community that can be counted on to support each other. The AAC continues to inspire and open our minds and hearts to new possibilities. The 2019 AAC will bring together the Ataxia community to not only meet and learn from world-leading Ataxia researchers and clinicians, but also to build new friendships and reunite with old friends.
General sessions scheduled on Friday and Saturday mornings will include topics to help treat symptoms of Ataxia and receive updates about the latest in Ataxia research. The popular small group sessions, Birds of a Feather, are scheduled on Friday and Saturday afternoon. These small group sessions are for specific types of Ataxia or affiliation to Ataxia. This year’s conference will introduce the Ataxia Marketplace where you can visit with exhibitors, participate in research studies, try out the activities, attend bonus sessions, and network with others.
Susan Perlman, MD
Ataxia: A Treatable Disease
In the past 50 years, ataxia has moved from just a symptom to a group of identified genetic and non-genetic disorders with mechanisms that are now understood. In the past 10 years more and more, pharmaceutical companies are finding avenues of research and development that lead to medications that could relieve symptoms and slow down progression. In the next year we could have the first FDA approved drug for ataxia. Never let anyone tell you that there’s nothing that can be done for ataxia.
Interested in research opportunities, accessible equipment, activities, and resources? Visit the Ataxia Marketplace during the conference to find out more about those areas of interest and participate in other activities and bonus sessions like fundraising to fight Ataxia.
The Flamingo Las Vegas is the official conference hotel of the 2019 NAF Annual Ataxia Conference. The Flamingo Las Vegas is located directly on the Vegas Strip and minutes from the McCarran International Airport at 3555 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, NV 89109. Guests of the Flamingo can enjoy fifteen-acres of Caribbean-style foliage which includes an extravagant Wildlife Habitat and five separate pools, with cascading waterfalls, for swimming and sunbathing. Guests can also shop and dine at multiple outlets inside the hotel and right outside along the adjoining LINQ Promenade. Featured on the LINQ Promenade is the High Roller, a 550-foot-tall observation wheel. The Flamingo Las Vegas is a very large facility. Please allow yourself extra time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the hotel and area. For your stay and planning purposes at the Flamingo Las Vegas, the following information is provided.
The conference registration is available online and in the Winter 2018-2019 issue of Generations. Please fill out the registration form completely, including your travel information, as we need all the information to finalize plans. When registration opens, you are encouraged to register before February 1, 2019 to receive the discounted early registration rate. General registration rates apply after February 1, 2019. Registrations after March 23 will only be accepted on-site at the conference.
(Additional “on-site” registration fee will apply) If you are bringing an attendant, please register together on the same registration form. Each person who is planning on attending daily sessions, the reception, or banquet needs to register. Event entry will be allowed only with properly registered name badges. The conference registration fee includes attendance at all the sessions, light appetizers at the Meet & Greet Reception and a plated meal at the Banquet.
NAF Member $150
Non-Member $205
NAF Member $200
Non-Member $255
Being a member of the National Ataxia Foundation has its benefits – one benefit is paying a lower registration fee for the Annual Ataxia Conference. If you are not currently a member of the Foundation or if your membership renewal is coming soon visit www.ataxia.org to become a member or renew your membership online. If you are uncertain of your membership status, please inquire by contacting the office at (763) 553-0020 or naf@ataxia.org. This will prevent unnecessary extra fees or errors in your membership status when you register for the 2018 Annual Ataxia Conference. Thank you for taking the time to renew or become a member of the National Ataxia Foundation.
Volunteers donating their time contribute greatly to the success of each NAF AAC. We need volunteers for the 2019 AAC! To sign up as a volunteer at the 2019 AAC or to get more information about the volunteer opportunities please contact 763-553-0020 or mollie@ataxia.org.
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-irbs/irb00-19.pdf
Rev. Rul. 2000–24, page 963 (In part)
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.
Because of the generosity of several donors, the National Ataxia Foundation can offer Travel Grants to help with a portion of the travel costs associated with attending the conference. Adults or children with Ataxia are eligible to apply for a travel grant. Individuals interested in the program are required to submit a Travel Grant application. Applications will be accepted until Jan. 6, 2019. Travel Grant applicants will be notified of the status of their application after the application deadline and after all applications have been reviewed. If you would like an application sent to you in the mail, contact Lori Shogren at 763-553-0020 or Lori@ataxia.org to request one.
By attending the 2019 NAF Annual Ataxia Conference you give your consent, unless you notify us otherwise, to use your image captured during the conference through video, photographs, or digital imagery, to be used by the National Ataxia Foundation in promotional materials, publications, and web site and waive any and all rights to these images.
The recording of any audio/or videotaping of conference sessions, or at any venue of the NAF Annual Ataxia Conference is forbidden, without prior approval in writing by the NAF. PowerPoint presentations will be available on the NAF website after the completion of the Annual Ataxia Conference. Attendants at the Annual Ataxia Conference expect, and deserve, the right to privacy. The NAF does photograph and record at the AAC and will make photographs and other media available for news, educational, and promotional purposes.
Soliciting funds for organizations other than the National Ataxia Foundation or for individual benefit is prohibited at NAF events. Any materials distributed seeking funds for other organizations or for individual benefit will be removed.
Las Vegas, an ever-changing fantasy land of a city, has seen unbelievable expansion since it emerged from the desert 100 years ago. The sights and sounds of Las Vegas are enjoyed by over 38.9 million visitors every year.
Vegas Strip – The length of the Strip can be deceptive… it takes more time than you would think to get from one end to the other. But where else in the world can you marvel at dancing fountains (the Bellagio), see an erupting volcano (the Mirage), or watch pirates and sirens entertain on ships nightly? (Treasure Island, or T.I.) Not to mention downtown’s Fremont Street Experience, which is a haven for pedestrians. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry a bottle of water.
Please visit www.visitlasvegas.com and https://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. The 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 links to important websites that will inform you of your rights and your responsibilities when traveling by air. Go to NAF’s website at https://ataxiadev.wpengine.com/general-references/. You will be directed to a list of links. Select the category Accessible Travel to find websites 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. Also, visit the TSA Cares website https://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.
Detailed information about services and facilities at the McCarran International Airport (LAS) to assist travelers with disabilities can be found at https://www.mccarran.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 once 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 McCarran International Airport website https://www.mccarran.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 McCarran 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 http://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 Lift do have an accessible ride option that can be selected when booking your ride. Accessible rides are limited so wait times for accessible rides tend to be longer. The distance to the ride share pick area is further to get to than the taxi or shuttle pick up areas.
Strip Trolley – The trolley operates on the Strip and pulls up to the entrance of each hotel on its route. Most are lift-equipped. For details visit http://www.lasvegas-how-to.com/trolley.php.
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. Visit http://www.lvmonorail.com/ for schedules and ticket prices.
CAT (Citizens Area Transit) – Bus service is fully accessible, including buses that are lift-equipped. Reduced fares are available for persons with disabilities. Call (702) 228-7433 or visit http://catride.com/.
Parking – If you have a parking permit from your home city for your car’s dashboard and you will be renting a vehicle in Las Vegas, bring it with you. You may also make advance arrangements for a free 90-day temporary disabled parking permit through the City of Las Vegas. Write to: City Hall, Parking Permit Office, 400 E. Stewart, Las Vegas, NV 89101, (702) 229-6431. Send a doctor’s letter explaining the condition and the duration of the condition and allow two to three weeks for a response. Valet parking is also an option at nearly every hotel.
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.
Ability Center
(702) 434-3030
Fax: (702) 434-3014
http://www.abilitycenter.com/lasvegas.php
Accessible Vans
Local: (702) 536-1842
http://www.accessiblevans.com/wheelchair-vans-rental-las-vegas-nv.php
Mobility Works of Las Vegas
(702) 876-9606
https://www.mobilityworks.com/mobilityworks-locations/las-vegas-nv.php
Wheelers
Las Vegas McCarran International Airport
(800) 456-1371
http://wheelersvanrentals.com/US/nevada-wheelchair-van-renta
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
http://www.comfortkeepers.com/office-142
Nurse Core
4423 W Flamingo Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 458-1137
Fax: (702)458-1423
http://www.nursecore.com/
Professional Healthcare Services
(702) 362-0711
http://professionalhealthcareserviceslv.com
Right At Home
(702) 367-3400
http://www.rightathome.net/lasvegas/
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
http://nahusa.com/
Ability Center
6001 S Decatur Blvd Ste N
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 434-3030
(800) 546-7622
http://www.abilitycenter.com/lasvegas.php
Desert Medical Equipment
3555 W. Reno Ave Suite F
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 876-9171
http://www.desertmedicalequip.com/
Freedom Medical Supply & Equipment
8868 South Eastern Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 386-9997
Fax: (702) 228-9996
http://www.freedommedicalsupply.com/
Get Around Mobility
3111 South Valley Blvd Suite U108
Las Vegas, NV
(702) 637-0008
http://www.getaroundmobility.com/
Las Vegas Scooters
84350 S. Arville St. Bld E Suite #40
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 610-4905
(866) 775-4381
http://www.702scooters.com/
Mobility Works of Las Vegas
2100 Decatur Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89102
(702) 876-9606
https://www.mobilityworks.com/mobilityworks-locations/las-vegas-nv.php
Scootaround Inc
(888) 441-7575
http://scootaround.com/
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
Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
ADA Coordinator
(702) 892-0711
Nevada Relay Service
Voice: 1-800-326-6888 or Dial 711
TTY: 1-800-326-6868 or Dial 711
http://www.lasvegas.com/travel-professionals/agent-tools/special-needs-visitors/
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.
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