Rare Diseases in Canada

Rare diseases pose unique challenges due to their low prevalence, diverse nature, and often complex medical profiles. This gathering, held in celebration of Rare Disease Day 2024, brings together leading researchers, health innovation stakeholders, and policy makers to shine a spotlight on the impact sustained research and innovation can have.  Join us for a meaningful discussion that can drive positive change. With the event host the Honourable Senator Marie-Françoise Mégie and special guest the Honourable Senator Mohamed-Iqbal Ravalia, this promises to be an engaging event you won’t want to miss!

Registration is now closed.

Meet the Host, the Honourable Senator Marie-Françoise Mégie

Senator Marie-Françoise Mégie was appointed to the Senate on November 25, 2016, by the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau. Senator Mégie represents the province of Québec and the Senatorial Division of Rougemont.

Senator Mégie’s professional career encompasses over 35 years as a family physician and nearly 30 years as a university professor. Born in Haiti, she arrived in Quebec in 1976, and rose through the ranks of the medical profession while also pursuing university teaching, becoming a clinical associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Montréal.

Meet the Researchers

The moderated session will feature six distinguished health researchers representing various national health organizations, universities, and institutes across Canada. Leading the discussions will be Alison Evans, the President and CEO of Research Canada. Topics of discussion for rare diseases in Canada may include challenges in diagnosis and treatment, access to specialized care and therapies, funding for research and development, and strategies for improving patient support and advocacy.

MODERATOR

Alison Evans
Research Canada
President and CEO