AirportsThe Fairmont Hotel Washington, D.C., Georgetown is in close proximity to 3 airports in the Washington, D.C. area.
Uber, Lyft and taxi service rates vary depending on airport.
The hotel is just minutes from the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle Metro Stations.
The hotel does not have an airport shuttle.
Parking is available at the hotel for $56/day.
9:00 - 11:00 AM: Registration
11:00 - 11:10 AM: Welcome, Introductions & Opening Remarks
11:10 - 11:30 AM: Background on Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
TOPIC 1: Effects of ITP that Matter Most to Patients and Caregivers
11:30 - 12:00 PM: Panel Discussion on Topic 1 where a panel of patients and caregivers will provide comments
12:00 - 1:00 PM: Facilitated Group discussion by patients and patient representatives from the audience will be invited to contribute to the discussion
1:00 - 1:45 PM: Lunch
TOPIC 2: Patient Perspectives on Current Approaches to Treatments
1:45 - 2:15 PM: Panel discussion on Topic 2 where a panel of patients and caregivers will provide comments on Topic 2
2:15 - 3:15 PM: Facilitated Group discussion by patients and patient representatives from the audience will be invited to contribute to the discussion
3:15 - 3:45 PM: Open Public Comments
3:15 - 3:45 PM: Closing Remarks
4:00 - 5:00 PM: Patient Mixer
8:00 - 9:00 AM: Registration, Continental Breakfast, Exhibits open
9:00 - 10:15 AM: ITP Treatment Guidelines Update
10:15 - 10:30 AM: Break
10:30 - 11:30 AM: Inquire & Inspire: patients ask the experts & share personal journeys (small group sessions)
11:30 - 11:45 AM: Break
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM: Breakout Sessions
12:45 - 1:45 PM: Lunch Break with PDSA Medical Advisors
1:45 - 2:45 PM: Clinical Trials: why participate?
2:45 - 3:00 PM: Break
3:00 - 4:00 PM: Breakout Sessions
4:00 - 4:15 PM: Break
4:15 - 5:15 PM: PDSA Patient-Centered Research (two recipients of PDSA research awards will present their research)
5:15 - 5:30 PM: Announcements
5:30 - 7:00 PM: Break
7:00 - 8:00 PM: Dinner Program
8:00 - 10:00 PM: Saturday Evening Family Fun Event
9:00 - 10:30 AM: Continental Breakfast
10:30 - 11:30 AM: Keynote Address: Washington Update: What ITP Patients, Caregivers and Providers Need to Know About the Changing Healthcare Landscape
11:30 - 11:45 AM: Break
11:45AM - 12:45 PM: Communicating with your Doctor
12:45 - 1:00 PM: Closing Remarks
*A separate track for teens and young adults will run Friday & Saturday
**Agenda and speakers subject to change
ITP Conference VideoAll of the sessions at the 2019 ITP Conference were videotaped and are available for purchase in The Platelet Store. The high-definition videos are organized onto a USB flash drive. They are PC and Mac compatible. The PowerPoint slide presentations are included in the videos.
This year, PDSA hosted its 19th annual update on immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) for patients, caregivers and the medical community in Washington, D.C. July 26-28. This year’s patient conference took place at the Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown. Each year the ITP conference provides opportunities to hear the latest information about ITP, meet others who are coping and living with ITP and receive answers to your medical questions. Attendees had the opportunity to ask questions to PDSA’s Medical Advisors, who are some of the most experienced ITP doctors in the world.
A highlight to the weekend was the Externally-Led Patient-Focused Drug Development (EL-PFDD) meeting on Friday, July 26, where representatives from the FDA were on-hand to get patient feedback on current ITP treatments and future drugs in development.
In addition to the educational program and social events, our conference featured several small group sessions that gave participants an opportunity to get to know other patients and caregivers in an intimate environment. We also offered programs for children at our Kids Kamp for children ages 5-12. Like last year, this year’s conference provided a separate track for teens and young adults.
Conference Photo GalleryClick the button below to view photos from the conference. Most Internet browsers will allow you to right-click on a photo and download the photo to your computer.
Introduced in 2016, this program welcomes first-time attendees to the premier patient event. ITP Conference Ambassadors guide new guests through a weekend filled with in-depth disease information, treatment options, the latest research reports, access to world renowned specialists, and life-altering resources. Together they forge meaningful connections that eliminate the mystery and empower patients and caregivers to take control of ITP.
Cathy (ITP Warrior) and Raul (ITP Spouse) AldamaHometown: Laguna Niguel, CA
ITP Warrior & ITP Spouse since: 2006
Daily Inspiration:
Cathy: My family; and new travel adventures.
Raul: Today will be a great day if I let it be.
ITP Survival Tip:
Cathy: Seek out as much information as you can so you can be your best advocate.
Raul: Understand that you can control ITP more than it can control you.
Favorite thing about ITP Conference:
Cathy: hard to pick just one...so, all the great people...seeing old friends, and making new ones!...and, of course, the wealth of information!
Raul: It’s very encouraging to hear how optimistic the panel of experts are. The information and education and hope they provide is very encouraging.
Kim EverettHometown: Manitowoc, Wisconsin
ITP Warrior since: 1983
Daily inspiration: Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it. Once a year travel someplace you’ve never been before, or pretend and just plan a trip, even if you never go. You learn so much while you dream of distant lands and read about different places and people.
ITP Survival tip: Learn how to advocate for yourself. Be kind to yourself, if treatments fail. Try not to second guess a past treatment decision, accept a failure and move on. Keep hope alive! Rest, meditate and listen to your body. Be kind to yourself and others, give back.
Favorite thing about ITP Conference: What I like most about the conference is knowing we’re not alone and the opportunity to learn enough information about ITP, so that we can advocate for ourselves, without feeling like we’re stupid. Knowledge is power!
Melissa HilsabeckHometown: Orange County, CA
ITP Warrior since: 2010
Daily Inspiration: Making people laugh and smile! You never know what someone else is going through so I believe a little smile can go a long way and laughter is the cure for everything.
ITP Survival Tip: Maintain an open communication relationship with your doctor so you feel just as involved in your treatment decision making process. Don't rush into anything you are uncomfortable with and research treatments before saying yes so you know they are right for you. Bonus Tip: PDSA has done all the research for you and they are available 24/7!
Favorite thing about ITP Conference: Seeing people from previous years continuing to stay involved in PDSA and sharing their experiences back in their hometowns. Having a meeting or putting on an event at least once a year really goes a long way. Hearing about them at the conference is very inspirational and serves as motivation to continually stay involved.
Kristin HuntHometown: Montreal, QC, Canada
ITP Warrior since: 2004
Daily Inspiration: Using my own experiences to help other patients with ITP is what motivates me every day. I will not rest until there is more research, more awareness and more support for this important cause.
ITP Survival Tip: Never let ITP stop you from doing what you love or achieving your goals! Having ITP is what inspired me to pursue medicine as a career so I can continue helping other patients. There are always ways to overcome even our greatest obstacles!
Favorite thing about ITP Conference: Getting to see all of the amazing people that make PDSA such a great support organization. I love seeing familiar faces year after year, but also getting to know new patients and learning about their ITP journey.
Jenni (ITP Mom) and Cayden (ITP Warrior) KruegerHometown: Beloit, WI
ITP Warrior since: 2016
Daily Inspiration:
Jenni: Lots of praying! Pray often, hug often, smile often!
Cayden: “I have ITP...... ITP doesn't have me!”
ITP Survival Tip: Please don't let ITP get the best of you! ITP is treatable. A person can live a "normal" life with ITP. LET'S BEAT ITP, LET'S BEAT ITP, LET'S BEAT ITP, LET'S BEAT ITP!
Favorite thing about ITP Conference:
Jenni: All of the sessions were my favorite. Ha. If I had to choose one...... It would probably be the small break-out sessions. Only because there were a couple that were geared towards parents/caregivers of CHILDREN suffering with ITP.
Cayden: The Children's group. I had so much fun! They had lots of fun activities and prizes! The photo booth was really fun too!
Dawn (ITP Mom) and John (ITP Warrior) Phillips Hometown: Elk Grove, CA
ITP Mom & ITP Warrior since: March 2014 when John was diagnosed and we have been raising awareness ever since.
Daily Inspiration:
Dawn: My son is an inspiration to me because he has been through so much and has come through it all a better person that is literally helping to save people's lives by encouraging donations of blood and blood products wherever he goes. He has had 530 donations in his name so far, simply amazing.
John: The look on people's faces when I share my story and they decide they want to start donating blood, platelets, or plasma.
ITP Survival Tip:
Dawn: Keep calm and know that other people understand what you are going through and are there to answer your questions.
John: Make time to take care of yourself.
Favorite thing about ITP Conference:
Dawn: I just love the staff, they have welcomed us like family members and are always supportive and looking out for things that might benefit us.
John: Knowing that I am not alone in my battle and talking with people who know exactly how I feel.
Barbara PruittHometown: Coral Gables, FL
ITP Warrior since: Fall 1961 - I have had ITP for almost my whole life.
Daily Inspiration: What motivates me to keep going? I don't know anything different. As I have gotten older, and maybe wiser, I feel that God isn't finished with me yet. I still have work to do here. I feel that helping others navigate the turbulent waters of ITP is my honor, and I am happy to do so.
ITP Survival Tip: When someone is diagnosed with ITP, I advise them to not focus solely on the platelet count number. That it is important to consider how you are living with a low platelet count. What are your symptoms? Do you have active bleeding? Petechiae? Are you bruising more or less? And how is the treatment affecting you? Your doctor needs to consider all of these issues before recommending a change in treatment.
Favorite thing about ITP Conference: the feeling of "kindred spirits" among the ITP patients. We know what it is like to walk in each other's shoes. No explanations needed. And for the weekend we are surrounded by people who care about ITP patients and want to make their journey easier. When I leave the conference each year I always feel loved, like I've been given a BIG hug!
Jana (ITP Mom) and Logan (ITP Warrior) ReschHometown: Milton, GA
ITP Mom & ITP Warrior since: Logan’s diagnosis in 2012.
Daily Inspiration:
Jana: Watching Logan take charge and not let ITP rule his life!.
Logan: I know that I have ITP, but it's only a small part of who I am.
ITP Survival Tip:
Jana: Establish a good relationship with your hematologist and nurses and ask LOTS of questions. Also connect and share info with others through the PDSA.
Logan: Don't let ITP run who you are or your life. Work with doctors who make sure it doesn't!
Favorite thing about ITP Conference:
Jana: Meeting other parents who have children with ITP and talking with the WONDERFUL doctors who come to the conference!
Logan: Meeting other people with ITP.
Dr. James Bussel is Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Obstetrics at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York City. His training was initiated at Yale, continued at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, then he completed a Pediatric Residency at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, and a Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at the combined Cornell/Memorial Sloan Kettering program. The great majority of Dr. Bussel's publications are centered around diagnosis and especially management of patients with ITP, including children with ITP, adults with ITP, pregnant women with ITP, HIV infected patients with thrombocytopenia, and fetuses affected by autoimmune and alloimmune thrombocytopenia. He has worked with IVIg, IV anti-D, rituximab, and most recently the thrombopoietic agents. Dr. Bussel also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Nichola Cooper is a Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Haematologist and at Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College, London, UK. She completed her undergraduate degrees at Cambridge University and Barts and the London Hospital Medical College, University of London, UK. During her haematology training, Dr Cooper undertook a research fellowship at Cornell Medical School, New York Presbyterian Hospital, USA with Jim Bussel, investigating the clinical and laboratory impact of treatments such as rituximab and anti-D immunoglobulin in patients with ITP. She also studied at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital, London, where she gained further experience in both paediatric and adult immunodeficiency disorders. Dr. Cooper runs a clinical and laboratory research programme investigating the causes of haematological autoimmunity. She has authored many papers published in international, peer-reviewed journals including Nature Immunology, Blood and the British Journal of Haematology.
Dr. Terry Gernsheimer is Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Medical Director of the Platelet Antibody Laboratory at the Puget Sound Blood Center, and Director of Transfusion Services for the University of Washington Medical Center and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Dr. Gernsheimer's research focuses on the pathophysiology and treatment of immune platelet disorders and pathologic immune responses associated with transfusion. She has clinical research interest in transfusion management of the hematopoietic stem cell transplant patient and surgical bleeding in patients undergoing solid organ transplant and cardiovascular procedures. She has made significant contributions toward understanding the pathophysiology and management of auto-immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Dr. Gernsheimer serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Johanna Gray is a Senior Vice President at CRD Associates. She has more than twelve years of experience in health policy and government relations, working with clients to develop and implement successful advocacy strategies involving Congress and federal public health agencies. Johanna’s clients include patient advocacy groups, physician specialty societies, and associations of specialized treatment centers.
Johanna’s expertise in health policy ranges from the broadly applicable private insurance market reforms included in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to the specifics of Medicare reimbursement for particular physician services. During the ACA negotiations, Johanna led a coalition of seventy patient advocacy groups and other supporters, which successfully advocated for the elimination of lifetime limits on private health insurance in the law.
Johanna began her career as an intern for then-Senator Barack Obama and held several policy analysis and advocacy positions before joining CRD. Johanna received a Master of Public Administration and Certificate in Health Services Management and Policy from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and a B.A. in Public Policy Studies with honors from the University of Chicago.
Andra H. James, MD, MPHDr. Andra James is a Consulting Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, where she is also Co-Director of the Comprehensive Hemostasis and Thrombosis Center. Dr. James graduated from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, trained in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of North Carolina, and completed her Fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Duke. Her practice, research, and advocacy pertain to reproductive issues among women with hematologic disorders. Dr. James participates or has participated in a number of organizations that serve patients with blood disorders and is currently President of the Foundation for Women and Girls with Blood Disorders. Dr. James also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Craig Kessler is professor of Medicine and Pathology and Section Chief of Hematology. He is also Director of the Coagulation Laboratory at Georgetown. A graduate of Tulane School of Medicine, Dr. Kessler received his specialty training in hematology and oncology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. An international expert in the area of disorders of coagulation, Dr. Kessler has a particular interest in hemophilia. He also has expertise in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Dr. Kessler also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. David Kuter is Chief of Hematology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. He earned a research doctorate (DPhil) at Magdalen College of Oxford University and a medical degree at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kuter is Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Chief of Hematology at the Massachusetts General Hospital. In addition, Dr. Kuter sits on numerous national and international ITP committees and is board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology. He has dedicated years of effort to researching coagulopathies, anticoagulation, and platelet disorders. In recent years, Dr. Kuter has conducted groundbreaking research into the development of effective thrombopoietic agents. Dr. Kuter also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Lambert is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Medical Director of the Special Coagulation Laboratory at CHOP. She graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School (now Rutgers) and completed her pediatric residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children followed by a year as Chief Resident. She then moved the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia were she completed her fellowship in pediatric hematology/oncology. She received her Masters in Translational Medicine in 2001. Her research efforts have focused on understanding the control of platelet production by megakaryocytes (the cells that make platelets) and the ways in which genetics influence platelet function and number in various clinical scenarios including ITP and inherited platelet disorders. Dr. Lambert serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Howard Liebman is Professor of Medicine and Pathology at the University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA. He serves as Medical Director of the Special Hemostasis Laboratory at the USC NorrisComprehensiveCancerCenter and is Director of the fellowship program in hematology. Dr. Liebman received his medical degree from USC and completed his postgraduate training including a residency in internal medicine and fellowships in medical oncology and hematology at Los AngelesCounty - University of Southern California Medical Center. Dr. Liebman completed a research fellowship at TuftsUniversity - New EnglandMedicalCenter, Boston, MA, and held faculty positions at TuftsUniversity and BostonUniversity, before returning to USC. Dr. Liebman's research interests include clinical management and characterization of haemostatic and thrombotic disorders, management of autoimmune blood disorders, and clinical therapy of HIV and AIDS. He has authored or co-authored 85 peer-reviewed publications and 26 reviews and chapters. Dr. Liebman also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. John Semple received his PhD in Immunology from Queen's University in 1986 and trained as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Banting and Best Department of Medical Research of the C.H. Best Institute, University of Toronto from 1986-1990. He joined St. Michael’s Hospital in 1990 and was a Senior Staff Scientist and Head of the Toronto Platelet Immunobiology Group at the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Sciences. He was also a Professor in the Departments of Pharmacology, Medicine and Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Toronto and an Adjunct Scientist with Canadian Blood Services. He joined Lund University in 2016 as a Professor of Transfusion Medicine of St. Michael’s Hospital. Dr. Semple has published over 120 papers on platelet immunology. His research activities include several areas including anti-platelet T cell responses in patients with acute and chronic ITP, the analysis of how platelet antigens are recognized by the immune system, and how platelets may act as immune-like cells that are responsible for initiating and perpetuating their own autoimmune demise. Dr. Semple also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Michael Tarantino is a Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Peoria and Medical Director of the Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute. He received a doctoral degree in medicine from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine in 1987. He completed an internship and residency at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center and a Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. Dr. Tarantino first became interested in ITP during his residency in 1988. Since that time he has designed and/or participated in numerous clinical investigations related to ITP and other platelet disorders. He has authored numerous publications relevant to the diagnosis and management of ITP, especially as it occurs in children. He is also active in hemophilia and other bleeding disorders research, and founded The Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Institute in 2010. Dr. Tarantino serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
| TIME | SESSION | |
|---|---|---|
| Sat., 8/1 10am-11am EDT | EXHIBIT HALL, RESOURCE CENTER, and ITP LOUNGES OPEN Please visit our industry partners in the exhibit hall, browse the PDSA Resource Center, and connect with others in one of the ITP lounges. | |
| Sat., 8/1 11am-12:30pm EDT | NAVIGATING ITP TREATMENT IN 2020: GUIDELINES IN PRACTICE, SHARED DECISION MAKING, PERSONALIZED CARE • James Bussel, MD • Terry Gernsheimer, MD • Craig Kessler, MD • David J. Kuter, MD, DPhil | |
| Sat., 8/1 12:30-12:45pm EDT | BREAK Exhibit Hall, PDSA Resource Center, and ITP Lounges open. | |
| Sat., 8/1 12:45-1:45pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- WOMEN & GIRLS WITH BLEEDING DISORDERS • Terry Gernsheimer, MD • Michele P. Lambert, MD, MTR(C) | |
| Sat., 8/1 12:45-1:45pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- FOR CANADIANS ONLY • Michelle Scholzberg, MDCM • John W. Semple, PhD | |
| Sat., 8/1 12:45-1:45pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- TEEN TALK • Michael Tarantino, MD | |
| Sat., 8/1 1:45-2pm EDT | BREAK Exhibit Hall, PDSA Resource Center, and ITP Lounges open. | |
| Sat., 8/1 2-3PM EDT | HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DIAGNOSIS OF ITP IS RIGHT? • Terry Gernsheimer, MD • John W. Semple, PhD • Craig Kessler, MD • Howard A. Liebman, MD | |
| Sat., 8/1 3-3:15pm EDT | EXHIBIT HALL, RESOURCE CENTER, and LOUNGES OPEN Please visit our industry partners in the exhibit hall, browse the PDSA Resource Center, and connect with others in one of the ITP lounges. | |
| Sat., 8/1 3:15pm-4pm EDT | MAPPING THE ITP PATIENT JOURNEY Sponsored by Amgen Please join us for an interactive visual-mapping activity with graphic artist, Lisa Aurora, as we discuss the ITP patient experience and treatment options. |
| TIME | SESSION | |
|---|---|---|
| Sun., 8/2 10am-12:15pm EDT | EXHIBIT HALL, RESOURCE CENTER, and ITP LOUNGES OPEN Please visit our industry partners in the exhibit hall, browse the PDSA Resource Center, and connect with others in one of the ITP lounges. | |
| Sun., 8/2 11am-12pm EDT | ITP SUPPORT GROUP FACILITATORS' WORKSHOP • Jody Shy, PDSA Director of Programs and Events | |
| Sun., 8/2 12-12:15pm EDT | BREAK Exhibit Hall, PDSA Resource Center, and ITP Lounges open. | |
| Sun., 8/2 12:15-1:15pm EDT | LIVING WITH ITP: FATIGUE, SPLENECTOMY, VACCINATIONS, BLOOD CLOTS & MORE • Donald Arnold, MD • James Bussel, MD • Craig Kessler, MD | |
| Sun., 8/2 1:15-1:30pm EDT | BREAK Exhibit Hall, PDSA Resource Center, and ITP Lounges open. | |
| Sun., 8/2 1:30-2:30pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- ITP IN ADULTS • James Bussel, MD • Terry Gernsheimer, MD • Craig Kessler, MD • David Kuter, MD, DPhil • Howard Liebman, MD • John Semple, PhD | |
| Sun., 8/2 1:30-2:30pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- ITP IN CHILDREN • Michele P. Lambert, MD, MTR | |
| Sun., 8/2 1:30-2:30pm EDT | CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSION: Q&A- TEEN TALK • Michael Tarantino, MD | |
| Sun., 8/2 2:30pm-2:45pm EDT | BREAK Exhibit Hall, PDSA Resource Center, and ITP Lounges open. | |
| Sun., 8/2 2:45pm-3:45PM EDT | COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR DOCTOR • Michael Tarantino, MD | |
| Sun., 8/2 3:45pm-4pm EDT | CLOSING REMARKS • Caroline Kruse, PDSA President & CEO |
| SESSION | |
|---|---|
| PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ITP AND CLINICAL TRIALS • John W. Semple, PhD • David J. Kuter, MD, DPhil | |
| COVID-19 AND ITP: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW • James Bussel, MD • Howard Liebman, MD |
Dr. Arnold is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine at McMaster University in Hamilton, Canada and Program Director for the McMaster Transfusion Medicine Residency Program. Dr. Arnold obtained his MD from McGill University and completed training in Internal Medicine at the Jewish General Hospital in Montreal. He then completed Hematology training at McMaster in 2003 and a Fellowship in Transfusion Medicine supported by the Canadian Blood Services and the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR). He holds a Master's degree in Health Research Methodology from McMaster and is the recipient of a CIHR New Investigator Award. Dr. Arnold is a translational researcher with a focus on immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). He is the lead investigator on several clinical trials in ITP and has developed a program of research that spans clinical studies designed to better understand patient preferences with respect to ITP treatments to basic research on the mechanisms of ITP.
Dr. James Bussel is Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Obstetrics at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York City. His training was initiated at Yale, continued at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, then he completed a Pediatric Residency at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, and a Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at the combined Cornell/Memorial Sloan Kettering program. The great majority of Dr. Bussel's publications are centered around diagnosis and especially management of patients with ITP, including children with ITP, adults with ITP, pregnant women with ITP, HIV infected patients with thrombocytopenia, and fetuses affected by autoimmune and alloimmune thrombocytopenia. He has worked with IVIg, IV anti-D, rituximab, and most recently the thrombopoietic agents. Dr. Bussel also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Nichola Cooper is a Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Haematologist and at Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College, London, UK. She completed her undergraduate degrees at Cambridge University and Barts and the London Hospital Medical College, University of London, UK. During her haematology training, Dr Cooper undertook a research fellowship at Cornell Medical School, New York Presbyterian Hospital, USA with Jim Bussel, investigating the clinical and laboratory impact of treatments such as rituximab and anti-D immunoglobulin in patients with ITP. She also studied at Great Ormond Street Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital, London, where she gained further experience in both paediatric and adult immunodeficiency disorders. Dr. Cooper runs a clinical and laboratory research programme investigating the causes of haematological autoimmunity. She has authored many papers published in international, peer-reviewed journals including Nature Immunology, Blood and the British Journal of Haematology.
Dr. Terry Gernsheimer is Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Medical Director of the Platelet Antibody Laboratory at the Puget Sound Blood Center, and Director of Transfusion Services for the University of Washington Medical Center and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Dr. Gernsheimer's research focuses on the pathophysiology and treatment of immune platelet disorders and pathologic immune responses associated with transfusion. She has clinical research interest in transfusion management of the hematopoietic stem cell transplant patient and surgical bleeding in patients undergoing solid organ transplant and cardiovascular procedures. She has made significant contributions toward understanding the pathophysiology and management of auto-immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Dr. Gernsheimer serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Andra H. James, MD, MPHDr. Andra James is a Consulting Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC, where she is also Co-Director of the Comprehensive Hemostasis and Thrombosis Center. Dr. James graduated from the University of Virginia School of Medicine, trained in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of North Carolina, and completed her Fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Duke. Her practice, research, and advocacy pertain to reproductive issues among women with hematologic disorders. Dr. James participates or has participated in a number of organizations that serve patients with blood disorders and is currently President of the Foundation for Women and Girls with Blood Disorders. Dr. James also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Craig Kessler is professor of Medicine and Pathology and Section Chief of Hematology. He is also Director of the Coagulation Laboratory at Georgetown. A graduate of Tulane School of Medicine, Dr. Kessler received his specialty training in hematology and oncology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. An international expert in the area of disorders of coagulation, Dr. Kessler has a particular interest in hemophilia. He also has expertise in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Dr. Kessler also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. David Kuter is Chief of Hematology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. He earned a research doctorate (DPhil) at Magdalen College of Oxford University and a medical degree at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kuter is Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Chief of Hematology at the Massachusetts General Hospital. In addition, Dr. Kuter sits on numerous national and international ITP committees and is board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology. He has dedicated years of effort to researching coagulopathies, anticoagulation, and platelet disorders. In recent years, Dr. Kuter has conducted groundbreaking research into the development of effective thrombopoietic agents. Dr. Kuter also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Lambert is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Medical Director of the Special Coagulation Laboratory at CHOP. She graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School (now Rutgers) and completed her pediatric residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children followed by a year as Chief Resident. She then moved the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia were she completed her fellowship in pediatric hematology/oncology. She received her Masters in Translational Medicine in 2001. Her research efforts have focused on understanding the control of platelet production by megakaryocytes (the cells that make platelets) and the ways in which genetics influence platelet function and number in various clinical scenarios including ITP and inherited platelet disorders. Dr. Lambert serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Howard Liebman is Professor of Medicine and Pathology at the University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA. He serves as Medical Director of the Special Hemostasis Laboratory at the USC NorrisComprehensiveCancerCenter and is Director of the fellowship program in hematology. Dr. Liebman received his medical degree from USC and completed his postgraduate training including a residency in internal medicine and fellowships in medical oncology and hematology at Los AngelesCounty - University of Southern California Medical Center. Dr. Liebman completed a research fellowship at TuftsUniversity - New EnglandMedicalCenter, Boston, MA, and held faculty positions at TuftsUniversity and BostonUniversity, before returning to USC. Dr. Liebman's research interests include clinical management and characterization of haemostatic and thrombotic disorders, management of autoimmune blood disorders, and clinical therapy of HIV and AIDS. He has authored or co-authored 85 peer-reviewed publications and 26 reviews and chapters. Dr. Liebman also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Diane J. Nugent, MDDr. Diane Nugent is a Clinical Professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine School of Medicine. She currently serves as Chair, Hematology, CHOC Children's Hospital of North Orange County, Orange, CA; Medical Director, Hematology and Blood and Donor Services CHOC Children's; and Division Chief, Hematology, CHOC Children's Specialists. Dr. Nugent is a nationally-recognized expert in pediatric hematology who specializes in blood disorders, bone marrow failure, bleeding and clotting disorders, anemias, and immune deficiencies. She is involved in clinical trials for rare blood disorders and is a principal investigator for regional hemophilia programs. Dr. Nugent has coauthored more than 100 journal articles and book chapters. She chairs review subcommittees at the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLB) at NIH in hematology. Dr. Nugent also participates in the Pediatric ITP Consortium of North America (ICON), a group of pediatric hematologists dedicated to improving the understanding, treatment, and quality of life (QOL) of pediatric ITP patients.
Dr. John Semple received his PhD in Immunology from Queen's University in 1986 and trained as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Banting and Best Department of Medical Research of the C.H. Best Institute, University of Toronto from 1986-1990. He joined St. Michael’s Hospital in 1990 and was a Senior Staff Scientist and Head of the Toronto Platelet Immunobiology Group at the Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Sciences. He was also a Professor in the Departments of Pharmacology, Medicine and Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology at the University of Toronto and an Adjunct Scientist with Canadian Blood Services. He joined Lund University in 2016 as a Professor of Transfusion Medicine of St. Michael’s Hospital. Dr. Semple has published over 120 papers on platelet immunology. His research activities include several areas including anti-platelet T cell responses in patients with acute and chronic ITP, the analysis of how platelet antigens are recognized by the immune system, and how platelets may act as immune-like cells that are responsible for initiating and perpetuating their own autoimmune demise. Dr. Semple also serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
Dr. Michelle Sholzberg received her MDCM and residency training in Internal Medicine at McGill University and she completed additional postgraduate training in Hematology at the University of Toronto. She has also completed a research hemostasis fellowship in Toronto and internationally. Dr. Sholzberg has a Master of Science from the University of Toronto in Clinical Epidemiology and Health Care Research and was awarded the Claire Bombardier award for career promise as a scientist. She is a clinician-investigator with a focus on bleeding, the Division Head of Hematology-Oncology and the Medical Director of the Coagulation Laboratory at St. Michael’s Hospital. She is also the Director of the Hematology-Oncology Clinical Research Group and Co-director of the Hematology-Immunology Translational Research Theme of the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute. Her research interests include inherited and acquired disorders of hemostasis. Currently, she is involved in the study of: prediction tools for perioperative bleeding, the appropriateness of coagulation testing, the intersection of women’s health and bleeding disorders, COVID-19 coagulopathy and new treatments for immune thrombocytopenia.
Dr. Michael Tarantino is a Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine-Peoria and Medical Director of the Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute. He received a doctoral degree in medicine from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine in 1987. He completed an internship and residency at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center and a Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. Dr. Tarantino first became interested in ITP during his residency in 1988. Since that time he has designed and/or participated in numerous clinical investigations related to ITP and other platelet disorders. He has authored numerous publications relevant to the diagnosis and management of ITP, especially as it occurs in children. He is also active in hemophilia and other bleeding disorders research, and founded The Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Institute in 2010. Dr. Tarantino serves on the PDSA Board of Medical Advisors.
During these extraordinary times, the safety and well-being of ITP patients remains our top priority. We are transitioning PDSA’s 20th ITP Conference from an in-person gathering to a virtual event. We promise to deliver the same educational excellence, engaging experts and community networking as our in-person events.
Each year the ITP conference provides opportunities to hear the latest information about ITP, meet others who are coping and living with ITP and receive answers to your medical questions. You will also have the opportunity to ask your questions to PDSA’s Medical Advisors, who are some of the most experienced ITP doctors in the world. You don’t want to miss out on this tremendous opportunity to hear and talk with these world-renowned experts.
PDSA’s 20th Anniversary Conference is complimentary to paid PDSA members but registration is required. If you are not a current PDSA member, please visit the MEMBERSHIP PAGE to become a member or renew your membership.
The first 400 registered patients and caregivers will receive a PDSA swag bag filled with information and goodies that will be mailed prior to the start of the conference. *Limit 1 per household; US and Canadian residents only
Pricing includes all online content on Saturday, August 1 and Sunday, August 2, 2020 as well as access to all recorded content for 1 year after the conclusion of the live program. No refunds for any cancellations.
If you have any questions or require assistance while completing the registration form, please contact Jody Shy at the PDSA office at (440) 746-9003 or (877) 528-3538 or via email at jshy@pdsa.org.
"Deepest and most sincere thanks to all the PDSA personnel and organizers. Hats off to Nancy, Caroline and Jody for being so friendly, respectful and willing to listen and help - you and the PDSA helps me see ITP with different eyes and hopefully train me to do the same for others in Argentina. Huge hugs!" – Ruben D.
"Thank you, I learned so much!" – Phyllis C.
"A wonderful conference - I enjoyed having the 3 days and I liked the way the first day started with the panel of ITP patients experience." – Patricia C.
"The amount of effort necessary to coordinate, plan and implement this program is gargantuan. 2019 conference delivered! PDSA has set the bar very high again! Time and time again, the PDSA conference exceeds my (and our) expectations for imparting knowledge to participants and this year was truly an exemplary experience. Thank you for another wonderful conference." – Madonna P.
4:00 – 7:00 PM EDT
Virtual Conference Orientation
Learn how to navigate our interactive and user-friendly platform to maximize your conference experience.
10:30 — 11:00 AM EDT
Exhibit Hall, Lounge
11:00 AM — 12:15 PM EDT
ITP Symptoms and Causes
12:15 — 12:30 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
12:30 — 1:30 PM EDT
Q&A: Breakout Sessions
1:30 — 1:45 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
1:45 — 3:15 PM EDT
Current ITP Treatments
3:15 – 3:30 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
3:30 — 4:15 PM EDT
Empowering patient discussions with physicians throughout the ITP journey (Sponsored by Amgen)
10:00 AM — 12:15 PM EDT
Exhibit Hall, Lounge
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT
Support Group Facilitators’ Workshop
12:00 — 12:15 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
12:15 — 1:45 PM EDT
Viruses and Vaccines: what we have learned about COVID & ITP
1:45 — 2:00 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
2:00 — 3:00 PM EDT
Q&A: Breakout Sessions
3:00 — 3:15 PM EDT
Break, Exhibit Hall, Lounge
3:15 — 4:15 PM EDT
New targets for targeted immune therapy for ITP
4:15 — 5:00 PM EDT
ITP Patient Success Stories
**Agenda and speakers subject to change
The safety and well-being of the ITP community remains PDSA’s top priority. Recognizing that travel and large gatherings may not yet be considered safe by Summer 2021, we have made the decision to once again host our Annual ITP Conference as a virtual event. The 2021 conference will replicate our traditional meeting environment as closely as possible and will offer the same caliber educational programming, engaging experts, and community networking of our in-person conference – bundled into an interactive and user-friendly online format.
Each year, the ITP Conference offers ITP patients, caregivers, physicians, and industry partners the invaluable opportunity to come together to share and learn. Join us to hear the latest information on ITP, research, and treatments; interact with others who are coping and living with ITP; and receive answers to your medical questions. Time is always allotted for Q & A with PDSA’s Medical Advisors, who are some of the most experienced ITP doctors in the world. Don’t miss out on this special opportunity. Mark your calendar and register today!
PDSA’s 21st Annual ITP Conference is complimentary to paid PDSA Members, but registration is required. If you are not a current PDSA Member, visit the MEMBERSHIP PAGE to join.
Once the conference has concluded, all recorded content will be made available to PDSA Members through December 2021.
Platelet Disorder Support Association
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IMPORTANT!
The Platelet Disorder Support Association does not provide medical advice or endorse any medication, vitamins or herbs. The information contained herein is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, discontinuing an existing treatment and to discuss any questions you may have regarding your unique medical condition.