Will we see you at the 2018 FIRST National Conference in Nashville, Tennessee? It's the biggest ichthyosis support meeting you'll find!  Medical professionals, FIRST staff, affected individuals and families from around the world gather together to learn, share information, have fun and build friendships for a lifetime. Here are some quick conference FAQ's so you'll know what to expect. 

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 2018 FIRST NATIONAL CONFERENCE, NASHVILLE!

Where and when is the 2018 FIRST National Conference?

Friday, June 29, 2018 7:00 am - Sunday, July 1, 2018 2:00 pm
Nashville Airport Marriott
600 Marriott Drive
Nashville, TN 37214

What can I expect at the conference?  

Members of FIRST come from all over the world to attend this three-day event. Lectures, breakout sessions, research initiatives and special events are designed to provide education and inspiration for all ages living with ichthyosis or a related skin type, as well as the physicians that care for them.  Thus far, sessions include: skin care tips for your specific type of ichthyosis; caring for eyes, ears and scalp; a panel discussion with ichthyosis “teens in the know;” private breakout sessions for moms, dads, and grandparents to share stories and find support; research updates from world renown ichthyosis medical experts; and how to develop a  504 plan for your child with special needs…to name a few. Plus there will also be an exciting Saturday night talent show and dance party, a Nashville group excursion (TBD) and, as always, attendees will have the unique opportunity to schedule a clinical visit and meet one-on-one with our ichthyosis medical experts. There is no doubt you will leave the conference with many tools and new friends, as you face the challenges of ichthyosis or a related skin type. Learn more about past FIRST conferences.  2018 FIRST National Conference program will be available in the fall 2017.

Who should attend the conference?

The conference is beneficial to those affected with ichthyosis or a related skin type, as well as their families or support network, and  medical professionals interested in learning more about ichthyosis & related skin types. Many of our members find it beneficial to bring relatives and/or close friends to come and learn about ichthyosis. Additionally, the conference is a unique opportunity for product developers, pharmaceutical companies and researchers to engage with patients one-on-one and learn more about their specific needs and challenges.

When can I register for the conference?

An opportunity to register with early-bird rates will be available on our website October 1, 2017.  The 2018 winter and spring issues of the Ichthyosis Focus newsletter will also include a registration form, that can be filled out and mailed to FIRST.

How much does it cost?

REGISTRATION RATE: January 1 to June 5, 2018

Adult $300 per person
Child  $120 per person
Toddler $35 per person

What is conference registration deadline?

June 5, 2018

What is I need to cancel my registration?

Conference reservations may be cancelled until June 5, 2018.  An administrative fee of $25 per person will be charged to cancel reservations.  After June 5, no refunds will be issued.

When can I reserve my hotel room?

A discounted group rate will be available at the Nashville Airport Marriott. The rate for FIRST’s block of rooms will be $159 ++ per night. The conference room rate is available from June 27 to July 1, 2018. There will be complimentary WiFi  in guest rooms, and complimentary self-parking.

Reservations must be made by Tuesday, June 5 by 5:00 pm CST.  Room reservations are separate from the conference registration fees.

Is there transportation from the airport to the hotel?

Yes, the hotel offers free shuttle service from the airport.

Is there childcare provided at the conference?

Yes. Childcare is $15 per child for the entire conference. A professional child care company has been contracted.

What is the dress code during the conference?

Come as you are!  Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

What type of medical research will be conducted at the conference?

Dr. Keith Choate and his team from Yale University will be conducting free genetic testing as a part of the National Ichthyosis Registry, partially-funded by FIRST.

What is a clinical appointment?

Scheduling a clinical appointment at the conference is a unique opportunity to meet one-on-one with our ichthyosis medical experts and/or the opportunity to play a key role in the advancement of ichthyosis research. There are 3 opportunities for clinical visits:

1. A 15-minute brief visit with a group of knowledgeable dermatologists.
2. A 1-hour visit to enroll in the Ichthyosis Registry, which will also include an opportunity to meet with knowledgeable dermatologists.
3. A visit for those who have already enrolled in the registry.  This is an opportunity for patients to update their information in the National Ichthyosis Registry, managed by Dr. Keith Choate's lab at Yale University.

How do I schedule my clinical appointment?

If you are interested in participating in a clinical visit, check the appropriate box on the complete registration form, when it is available.  The staff will assign appointment times.  You will be notified of your appointment time by June 15, 2018.

Is there finanical aid available?

Yes, there are conference scholarships available. Applications will be available November 1, 2017.  Application deadline will be February 1, 2018.

Who can I contact for more information?

Lisa Breuning is FIRST’s conference director and she is happy to assist.
Feel free to email Lisa at lbreuning@firstskinfoundation.org or call the national office at 215-997-9400.

An inside look at past FIRST conferences.