About the Conference
Join us for an inspirational day of education and support!
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with scleroderma you may have a lot of questions about what to expect and what your treatment options are. This is an opportunity for you to hear directly from scleroderma experts, get answers to your questions and learn about resources available to you.
You'll also have the opportunity to connect with others who have shared experiences and gain support from a community that understands. There's an exchange of ideas and information that can help you become your own best advocate and take charge of your health. Knowledge is power!
Hear the Latest
Treatment Options
Listen to top experts in the field as they discuss how scleroderma impacts the body and what treatment options are available. Empower yourself with the knowledge to make more informed decisions about your health.
The Power of Community
Know that you are not alone in this journey. Connect with peers and get support from those who have valuable experience to share. Gain access to resources like support groups and community events that can help offer support year-round.
Get Answers to
Your Questions
Scleroderma affects everyone differently so you may have a lot of questions about what to expect. Each session will feature interactive Q&A sessions, allowing you to engage directly with our experts. Plus you'll learn about other resources that can help you along your journey.
Practical Lifestyle Tips
Learn small everyday lifestyle changes that can boost your wellness goals and help alleviate symptoms. With topics ranging from diet and nutrition, to exercise and sleep, learn how to take charge of your physical and emotional health as it relates to scleroderma.
Topics & Speakers
Scleroderma & Lung Health A Panel Discussion
Speakers TBD
Managing Fatigue with Scleroderma
Carrie Richardson, MD
Co-director Northwestern Scleroderma Program
Using Your Voice: An Interactive
Self-Advocacy Workshop
Karen Brown, MA
Award-winning Author
Scleroderma, Nutrition, and the GI Tract
![professional headshot 2022 Liu[76].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4cf6ab_0fad790740114406b09f5e3cbf8decd0~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_199,w_2100,h_2070/fill/w_164,h_162,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/professional%20headshot%202022%20Liu%5B76%5D.jpg)
Joy Liu, MD
Northwestern Scleroderma Program
Bethany M. Doerfler, RD
Northwestern Scleroderma Program
Taking Control: Techniques for Coping with Scleroderma
Judith Wilen, PhD
Northwestern Scleroderma Program
Tiffany Phanhdone, MD
Rush University Medical Center
Schedule at a Glance
9:00 - 9:30 am - Registration
9:30 - 10:00 am - Welcome and Opening Remarks
10:00 - 11:00 am - Scleroderma & Lung Health: A Panel Discussion
11:00 - 11:45 am - Using Your Voice: Interactive Self-Advocacy Workshop
11:45 am - 12:45 pm - Networking Luncheon
12:45 - 1:45 pm - Managing Fatigue with Scleroderma
1:45 - 2:45 pm - Taking Control: Techniques for Coping with Scleroderma
2:45 - 3:00 pm - Break
3:00 - 4:00 pm - Scleroderma, Nutrition, and the GI Tract
4:00 - Closing Remarks
Jaclyn R.
“The conference has made a meaningful difference in my life because I am able to get educated by doctors, hear from fellow scleroderma warriors and get answers. The Scleroderma Foundation of Greater Chicago has made a positive impact in my life.”
Mark G.
“When I first learned about having the disease, just coming to education conferences was really beneficial to see the doctors in person and understand the research that is going on.”
Karen B.
"I want to inform you that I thought the conference was terrific. The topics, speakers, and breakouts were engaging.I know this was quite a lot of work for you and the team. I am grateful. Bravo!"
Gleacher Center
Conference Center
450 Cityfront Plaza Dr
Chicago, IL 60611
Getting there
This conference takes place at the Gleacher Center in the heart of beautiful downtown Chicago, right on the Chicago River. It is close to Chicago’s best attractions including the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, the Riverwalk, and Millennium Park, allowing you to make the most of your time in Chicago.
Questions? We are happy to help! Just give us a call at 312-660-1131.
Parking
There are several parking options conveniently located near the Gleacher Center. We recommend the parking garage at 240 E Illinois St. It is only one block north of the Gleacher Center.
Additionally, you may be interested in using Spot Hero or Park Whiz for nearby parking options. These apps allow you to secure a parking spot ahead of time at a pre-determined rate.
If you prefer to drop off, or take public transportation, there is a convenient circle drive near the front door of the Gleacher Center.
If you have any reservations about parking, just give us a call at 312-660-1131. We're here to help!
Hotel Accommodations
If you are seeking hotel accommodations, there are many options within walking distance of the conference. This is just a limited selection of the many hotels to be found in Chicago. Make sure to check and compare prices to maximize your visit!
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Loews
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Chicago Hotel
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Radisson Blu Hotel
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Sheraton Grand Hotel
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Swisshotel
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L7 chicago
Community Health Policy
To help protect our scleroderma community, we strongly encourage all attendees to follow illness prevention guidelines. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, a cold, or any contagious illness, such as fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, or feeling unwell, or if you have recently been exposed to someone who is ill, we kindly ask that you stay home. Surgical masks remain optional. For those who may be at higher risk or who prefer to be around others wearing masks, designated seating areas can be made available.Thank you for helping us create a safe, inclusive, and caring environment for everyone.