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Thanks to all who attended and contributed to this lively debate.

It was a revealing exploration into the impacts of early diagnosis for neurodegenerative disorders.

See the video above to hear speakers sharing their insights on key questions, including:

  • What’s preventing earlier diagnosis?
  • In some cases, could diagnosis be better off unknown?
  • Until more effective treatments are developed, what’s the point of earlier diagnosis?


Special thanks to our moderator and panelists:

MaryAnne Sterling

MaryAnne Sterling
Cofounder, Connected
Health Resources

MaryAnne’s mission to transform healthcare systems for caregivers began at home over two decades ago. Caring for her parents, both of whom suffered from dementia, she struggled to find adequate support services. Now – a renowned speaker, educator, and champion for patient-centered healthcare – MaryAnne empowers families and caregivers worldwide to provide optimal support for patients.
Marwan Sabbagh

Marwan Sabbagh
CMD. Director, Barrow
Neurological Institute

Dr. Sabbagh is widely recognized for his expertise in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, with a focus on the development of innovative new therapies. Having coauthored more than 250 articles on Alzheimer’s research, and led investigations in prominent clinical trials, Dr. Sabbagh offers insights into the changing landscape of neurodegenerative disorders.
Jillian Carson

Jillian Carson
Co-founder, Parkinson
CWellness Project.

After receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2010, Jillian became an advocate for improved patient care. As an ambassador of the World Parkinson Congress, she works to raise awareness about the latest scientific discoveries, medical practices, and care initiatives that improve the lives of people living with PD. Jillian’s combination of professional and personal experience provides a unique perspective on neurodegenerative disorders as both a patient and healthcare practitioner.
Drew Falconer

Drew Falconer
MD. Assistant professor,
VCU School of Medicine
Inova Campus.

A three-time winner of the “String of Pearls Neurology Teaching Award,” Dr. Falconer now codirects the largest movement disorders program in northern Virginia. Through his clinical work, he has amassed first-hand experience in the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s disease. His work at the Inova Movement Disorders Program is driven by his interest in the application of cutting-edge technologies to improve patients’ conditions.
Molly LeGrand-Wisniewski

Molly LeGrand-Wisniewski
Caregiver and Blogger.

With a substantial online presence and more than a decade’s experience as a caregiver, Molly has become a well-known advocate for dementia care. Through her experience with patients at many different stages of neurodegenerative conditions, Molly has developed an intimate understanding of how neurological disorders can affect multiple aspects of patients’ lives.


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This event was not part of the 2018 American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting. CME credits were not given by any accredited organizations for attending this event.