A patient and caregiver education initiative developed through a collaboration among:
The Mast Cell AIM Medscape Oncology WebMD Education
Supported by an independent educational grant from Blueprint Medicines, a Sanofi company.

Building Bridges of Support and Understanding for Patients and Caregivers

Baltimore, MD
Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 9:30 AM - 3:15 PM ET
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overview

This half-day live/hybrid educational seminar is intended for patients with indolent systemic mastocytosis (ISM) and their families. A panel of experts in ISM will partner with patient advocates to discuss the importance of raising awareness of ISM and its clinical characteristics, coping strategies for navigating life with ISM, the evolving art and science of identifying and caring for patients with ISM, and the latest developments in the field. The schedule includes opportunities for learners to ask questions of the experts and to connect with other individuals and families living with ISM. In-person attendance is limited; register now to reserve your spot. Meals and validated parking will be provided for in-person attendees.

Faculty

CHAIR

Melanie C. Dispenza​, MD, PhD

​Assistant Professor of Medicine

Johns Hopkins University Schools of Medicine

Baltimore, Maryland

SPEAKER

Melody Carter, MD

Allergy/Immunology Specialist

​Bethesda, Maryland​

SPEAKER

Jennifer Nicoloro-SantaBarbara, PhD

​Investigator, Brigham and Women's Hospital

​Instructor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School

Cambridge, Massachusetts​

SPEAKER

Vlai Ly

​The Mast Cell Disease Society

​Sterling, Massachusetts​

PATIENT ADVOCATE

​​Candice Pauley

AGENDA

9:30 AM ET

Breakfast & Community Connections #1

10:15 AM ET

Program Welcome and Overview

10:20 AM ET

Understanding SM: From Mechanisms to Lived Experience

11:30 AM ET

Panel Discussion Break & Community Connections #2 Tips for Daily Living

12:30 PM ET

Beyond Symptoms: The New Normal: Expecting More From Care

1:05 PM ET

Q&A

1:15 PM ET

Midday Break and Community Connections #3

1:45 PM ET

Targeted Treatments: Current and Emerging Agents Across SM Subtypes

2:25 PM ET

Patient and Family Empowerment

3:05 PM ET

Key Takeaways & Commitments—Defining Your New Normal

3:15 PM ET

Session Close

LOCATION

Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel

202 E Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD, 21202

Safety Protocols

Meeting Venue

  • No carpet cleaning two weeks prior to the events
  • No air fresheners in meeting rooms, hallways, or lobby
  • All automatic scent machines for the lobby and public areas will be disconnected at least 24 hours before the meetings
  • No open scented soaps

Meals

  • Gluten-free and vegan options will be available
  • A list of ingredients will be provided for the menu items once finalized
  • Items will be labeled with Top 9 allergens

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

  • Individuals with ISM
  • Caregivers, family members, and friends
  • Healthcare professionals are also welcome

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?

  • Connect with leading experts in the field
  • Gain deeper knowledge and understanding of ways to manage ISM
  • Learn clinical characteristics of ISM and coping strategies for navigating daily life
  • Opportunity to have your questions answered
  • Engage with people who truly understand your experiences
  • Develop a strong community of support
  • Return home empowered and more prepared to advocate for better care
  • Engage in informed conversations with your healthcare team about treatment options
A patient and caregiver education initiative developed through a collaboration among:
The Mast AIM Medscape Oncology WebMD Education
Supported by an independent educational grant from Blueprint Medicines, a Sanofi company.

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