Are you a person with FTD? Are you unsure how this came about for you? Are you wondering about your future? Do you feel all alone?

I would like to invite you attend AFTD’s 2023 Education Conference this May 5, in St. Louis, Missouri, and online. 

My name is Anne; I am one of the co-chairs of AFTD’s Persons with FTD Advisory Council. Our council consists of a group of individuals who work to have our voices heard and share what it takes to live positively on this journey. Here are some of our voices:

Bob: Attending the AFTD Education Conference is the perfect way to be educated and network. Meeting in person is a great way to facilitate contacts with others who have FTD. I have heard caregivers state that they wish they had brought their person with FTD. Also, caregivers learn to treat you responsibly with tried suggestions that you and your caregiver can explore together.

Sandy: The AFTD Education Conference first helped me not feel so isolated. Meeting someone who understands helps you feel accepted. I have developed many mutual friendships.

Steve: I face declining conversations and hindrance over finances. I attended one AFTD Education Conference and treasured the experience. I didn’t stay overnight in the hotel and now I wish I had because of the people I met, who continue to mean so much to me. Because of my living situation and the anxiety associated with the FTD, I haven’t attended another one in person. But I tune in to the live feed online.

Kevin: I am newly diagnosed with FTD, and I attended my first AFTD Education Conference last year. I felt the education was good. Meeting others at the pizza party made me feel treated with dignity — and that FTD is not an immediate death sentence.

Teresa: I have attended many AFTD Education Conferences over the years. I especially enjoy meeting up with others with FTD. It makes me feel “normal” again. There is no stigma. It a safe place for people with FTD.

Jennifer: Attending the conference allows us to be in the presence of others with FTD in a safe space to socialize as well as learn so much from others. AFTD ensures there is applicable material for people with all forms of FTD, care partners, and medical professionals.

Cindy: The first time I attended an AFTD Education Conference, in Minneapolis in 2016, I knew I was at home. I was with my new family and not being judged. No one cared if my words were wrong, or I laughed inappropriately. I was accepted for who I was… someone with a diagnosis of FTD who wanted information. That is what I got, along with dozens of new friends. I haven’t missed one since!

The council and I are hoping you will plan to attend the 2023 AFTD Education Conference; we would like to meet you. If you feel you are unable to attend in person, please check out the live feed online.

Click here to register for the AFTD Education Conference. AFTD also offers Comstock Travel Grants to subsidize travel costs for those who qualify.