FAST Board Secretary Amelia Beatty and Global Advisor Ellen Koekoeckx joined the world’s leading voices in rare disease research at the MENA Congress for Rare Diseases in Abu Dhabi. The MENA Congress, the largest event of its kind in the region, brought together over 150 speakers — including more than 70 international experts — to share cutting-edge advancements across rare diseases, artificial intelligence, diagnostics, management, and novel therapies.
Amelia and Ellen presented on the Angelman syndrome therapeutic pipeline, highlighting FAST’s strategic research initiatives and clear roadmap toward transformative treatments. They connected with the growing AS community in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), sharing how families and researchers can support FAST’s mission through awareness efforts, advocacy, data collection, and participation in the Global Angelman Syndrome Registry (GASR).
The impact was immediate. Shoeb Ahmed from Qatar, father of Hadia, who lives with Angelman syndrome, who attended the conference shared:
"It was an honor to attend the Rare Disease Conference in Abu Dhabi and hear from Ms. Amelia and Ms. Ellen. Their insightful presentation highlighted the pivotal role of FAST and the significant advancements being made through therapeutic research, presenting a clear and strategic roadmap toward a potential cure for Angelman Syndrome."
The sustained presence of FAST in the MENA region stands as a vital source of inspiration and hope for families affected by AS throughout the region."
FAST’s participation at this prestigious international congress reflects its ongoing commitment to global collaboration, ensuring that families everywhere have access to the latest research, resources, and hope for a cure.
A big thank you to Prof. Ayman who organized this wonderful congress for including FAST in this important event—and to the families who inspire us every day.
