HHIssues

July 27-29: Meeting on Human Genome Project and Hearing Loss (Bethesda, MD)

The AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is hosting a meeting, July 27-29, 2001 at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda, Bethesda, MD on " The Human Genome Project and Hearing Loss". It will feature Dr. Francis Collins M.D., PhD, Director of the Human Genome Institute, on Friday evening, July 27, as the keynote speaker.

Dr. Collins will speak on The Human Genome Project: Healthcare Implications. He will discuss the remarkable progress and achievements of the Human Genome Project, a project aimed at mapping and sequencing human DNA, over the past decade. Special emphasis will be given to the role these advances are playing in the identification of genes that contribute to hearing loss. Dr. Collins will conclude with a discussion of the potential for improved therapies based on findings from the Project.

The opening session will also include a feature performance by AG Bell's own Leadership Opportunities for Teens (LOFT), its preeminent leadership program for young adults with hearing loss, sponsored this year by Phonic Ear. Immediately following the keynote address, will be a welcome reception.

On Saturday afternoon, July 28, and Sunday morning, July 29, additional educational sessions on topics unrelated to genetics are scheduled. These sessions will address such issues as hearing technology, parenting, social/emotional issues, access, speech and language development, mainstreaming, and more. Parents of children with hearing loss, professionals, and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing will also have many opportunities to network. Childcare is available to those who pre-register.

For information: Rhonda Simmons: 202-337-5220 x123 or email rsimmons@agbell.org.

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