DR. STEVEN VERNINO

Topic: Treatment of Adults

Steven Vernino, M.D., PhD., is Associate Professor of Neurology at UT Southwestern,

leads Vernino Lab which focuses on the mechanisms of autoimmune

disorders of the nervous system.

Dr. Vernino specializes in evaluating, diagnosing, and

non-surgically treating autoimmune neurological disorders, autonomic disorders,

and neuromuscular disorders.

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DR. DAVID SALISBURY

Topic: Short and Long Term Rehabilitation Options for Brain Plasticity and Recovery

David Salisbury, Psy.D., ABPP-CN, is a clinical director at Pate Rehabilitation. He is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist with extensive experience in diverse

medical and rehabilitation-based

settings. David has provided a comprehensive understanding of the necessary care for brain injured populations, from the acute stage to early recovery and ultimately to assisting in the long-term care needs.

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JENNIFER GARCIA

Topic: Short and Long Term Rehabilitation Options for Brain Plasticity and Recovery

Jennifer Garcia is a support living program manager with Pate Rehabilitation. The supported living activity program is focused on enrichment and improving quality of life. Jennifer gets long-term residents out in the fresh air for functional, therapeutic activities that are fun and engaging. The program is designed to increase physical activity, social interaction, wellness and build skills that may one day translate into local jobs.

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DR. CINDY WANG

Topic: Treatment of Children

Cindy Wang M.D. is a pediatric neurologist with a focus on autoimmune disorders at

UT Southwestern Medical Center, where she also serves as an assistant instructor.

Dr. Wang is actively involved in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment protocols of

autoimmune encephalitis.

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DR. ROBERT WEIR

Topic: The benefits of a Psychiatry and Neurology Discipline in Treating Encephalitis

Robert Weir, M.D. is a resident physician in neurology and psychiatry and a porstdoctoral research fellow with UT Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Weir has a unique blend of medical training that until recently, was offered only at a handful of medical schools on the east coast; combined certification in psychiatry and neurology, which qualifies him for treating some of the most complex encephalitis cases. 

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DR. STEVEN CHOCK

Topic: Life After Encephalitis: Coping Mechanisms for Survivors and Caregivers

Steven Chock, PhD., is a neuropsychologist experienced in psychological assessment, neuropsychological testing, rehabilitation psychology, and counseling specific to brain injury. Dr. Chock is on staff with Hope Works and is a certified brain injury specialist.

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DR. ROBERT HALEY

Topic: Treatment and Diagnosis of West Nile Virus and Other Infectious Encephalitis Disorders

Robert Haley M.D., is Professor of Internal Medicine and Director of the Division of Epidemiology in the Internal Medicine Department at UT Southwestern Medical Center and holder of the U.S. Armed Forces Veterans Distinguished Chair for Medical Research Honoring America's Gulf War Veterans.

Dr. Haley is part of epidemiology and prevention of West Nile Virus epidemics and was closely involved in the Dalas-area West Nile Virus epidemic.

 

MADDY BOEHME

Presentation: What Has AE Taught Me?

Maddy Boehme is an AE survivor with Hashimoto's encephalitis survivor, advocate, and co-Vice President of HESA.

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ANGELA MADDEN

Presentation: Circle of Hope

Angela Madden is the caregiver and advocate for her son who is a survivor of Hashimoto's encephalitis.

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BRETT WHITE

Presentation: When Encephalitis Can Be Beat By A Goal-Oriented Mindset:

My Recovery Journey

Brett White, PGA Tour Latinoameria player, was "on top of his game" when encephalitis struck this athlete, reducing him to paralysis initially and working tirelessly to return to the love of his life, golf. Brett's sheer perseverance and goal-oriented mindset led him to the toughest journey he would ever experience.

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JACOB SAVOIE

Presentation: My Missing Mind Movie

Jacob Savoie, encephalitis survivor and filmmaker, studied business administration and management at LSU. As a survivor, Jacob has reenacted his survival story into a film called "My Missing Mind".

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CHRIS MAXWELL

Presentation: Inspirational Speech

Chris Maxwell is an encephalitis survivor, author, public speaker and Director of Spiritual Life and Campus Pastor at Emmanuel College. Chris enjoys providing messages of motivation, hope and inspiration that he's gained throughout his recovery journey.

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SONIA GRAMCKO

Presentation: Musical Performance

Sonia Gramcko is a 5 time survivor of anti-NMDAR encephalitis. After battling the illness for 5 years, she is now pursuing

her passion for music at Carelton University in Ottawa, Canada. She is in her 2nd year of a 4 year

Bachelor of Music Degree.

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BECKY DENNIS

MC