"The FAST Summit and Gala is, quite literally, a life-changing event. I’ve made lifelong friends from all over the world, thanks to FAST, and I love having the opportunity to talk face-to-face with the researchers who are working so hard to find a cure. I truly appreciate getting the latest updates on research and learning about new products and services for my child. On top of all that, the weekend ends with THE PARTY OF THE YEAR – not to mention a fabulous after party. If you are a newly diagnosed parent, do not miss this!" Stephanie Fore

The FAST Global Summit & Gala draws more than 1,000 attendees from around the world. The annual event features a science summit, educational workshops and an AAC carnival, and the weekend concludes with a star-studded gala recognized as Chicago’s largest celebrity fundraiser. One hundred percent of the money raised at the gala benefits research for Angelman syndrome (AS). Check out these fun photos from last year, and please keep reading for more details about this can’t-miss event!

speaking into microphone

SCIENCE SUMMIT | Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
AAC CARNIVAL | Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The weekend kicks off with our science summit where you can interact directly with the scientists, researchers, and pharmaceutical and biotechnology company leaders working on a cure for Angelman syndrome, while getting up to speed on all of the latest developments and breakthroughs in AS research. Receive real-time updates on current and upcoming clinical trials, and learn what you can do right now to assist in accelerating treatments and a cure for AS. Be sure to stop by the AAC carnival to learn about products and services designed to assist individuals with Angelman syndrome and their family members, including adaptive equipment, therapy devices, assistive technology and more.

tables of people

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS | Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
AAC CARNIVAL | Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The educational workshops provide parents, caregivers, therapists and educators with product demonstrations and information about services that can help improve the quality of life for individuals with Angelman syndrome – and those who care for them. Learn about everything from communication technology to IEP planning. Then, visit the AAC carnival to test out the products and services firsthand, including adaptive equipment, therapy devices, assistive technology and more.

hands in the air

GALA | Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, from 6 p.m. to midnight.

This is where 1,000 of your FAST friends will celebrate our 10th anniversary as One Team with One Mission! The FAST Gala is Chicago’s largest celebrity fundraiser. Actors Colin Farrell, Jai Courtney, Retta and Zachary Levi regularly attend. Christina Applegate, Taylor Lautner, Vincent D’Onofrio, Rosie Perez, Wilmer Valderrama, Jesse Lee Soffer and Richard Marx are just a few others who have joined us. Enjoy an open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail hour followed by a magical evening of dining, dancing and entertainment. Actor, and fellow parent, Colin Farrell cannot wait to celebrate our 10th anniversary with you! Want a sneak peek inside this amazing event? Just click on the media coverage below.

Media Coverage

Take the Next Step now:

Please use the following links to prepare for this amazing weekend:

Check back soon for updates, and please spread the word with Angelman families who may not know about FAST!

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