The 2026 Fall Advocacy & Medical Symposium (FAMS) was a weekend of inspiration, education, and unity. Across South Carolina, individuals, families, healthcare professionals, and allies impacted by bleeding disorders gathered to learn, connect, and elevate our collective voice. FAMS stands for Fall Advocacy & Medical Symposium—but it also represents “FAM”. We are a family of advocates standing shoulder to shoulder, lifting each other up, and fighting for a healthier, more equitable future.
Where Health Meets Policy, and Voices Drive Action
FAMS is far more than an annual conference—it is where lived experience meets frontline action. Throughout the weekend, attendees engaged in vital sessions focused on advancing patient care, navigating complex healthcare systems, and protecting critical treatment access:- Cutting-Edge Medical Advances: Families connected directly with medical professionals and industry leaders to explore the evolving treatment landscape, product pipelines, and groundbreaking therapeutic innovations.
- Grassroots Advocacy Training: Participants honed their skills in telling compelling personal stories to drive policy reform, protect access to life-saving therapies, and advocate against barriers like copay accumulators.
- Family & Youth Empowerment: Programs tailored for children, teens, and caregivers provided a supportive space to build resilience, self-advocacy skills, and lifelong peer friendships.
- Clinical Support & Community Care: On-site infusion education and open discussions fostered shared learning, helping newly diagnosed families and long-time community members navigate daily care with confidence.
Stronger Together: A Heartfelt Thank You
The success of FAMS 2026 reflects the generosity, passion, and commitment of an entire community. We extend our deepest gratitude to:- Our Campers, Patients, and Families for your openness, courage, and dedication to sharing your journeys.
- Our Volunteers and Staff whose tireless behind-the-scenes work made this weekend run seamlessly.
- Our Healthcare Partners and Expert Speakers for sharing their time, knowledge, and clinical leadership.
- Our Sponsors and Exhibitors whose continued support makes these life-changing community programs possible.