Past Events

2003

1st Annual Melorheostosis Conference

St. Louis, Missouri

The first-ever gathering of melorheostosis patients, families, and medical professionals established the foundation for a united patient community. Attendees shared experiences, built lasting connections, and launched plans to create The Melorheostosis Association.

2004

2nd International Melorheostosis Conference

East Lansing, Michigan

Bringing together patients from across the United States and abroad, the conference connected the community with leading researchers and physicians at Michigan State University. The event strengthened partnerships that would help shape future research and advocacy efforts.

2005

3rd International Melorheostosis Conference

St. Louis, Missouri

This conference marked an important step forward in research collaboration, featuring presentations from internationally recognized experts and discussions on future scientific studies. Key initiatives included the development of a patient handbook and the creation of a blood repository to support research.

2006

4th International Melorheostosis Conference

Madison, Wisconsin

Held in Madison, Wisconsin, this conference focused on emerging scientific discoveries, the conference highlighted advances in genetics and the biological mechanisms behind melorheostosis. Researchers and patients came together to explore new opportunities for understanding and treating the disease.

2008

5th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rockville, Maryland

The conference balanced cutting-edge research updates with practical guidance for living with melorheostosis. Sessions explored topics ranging from physical therapy and healthy lifestyles to ongoing international research efforts.

2008

First Advances in Rare Bone Diseases Conference

Bethesda, Maryland

Melorheostosis was featured alongside other rare bone disorders in this multidisciplinary conference. The event helped increase awareness of the disease and foster collaboration within the broader rare disease research community.

2010

6th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

This conference took place August 5 – 7, 2010 near the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN USA. There were discussions around current research, surgery and pain management. There were also patient interactive sessions and patient clinicals with a group of doctors.

2011

7th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

This conference took place August 25 – 27, 2011 near the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN USA. There was a general melorheostosis overview session with discussions around current research, surgery and physical therapy. There were also patient interactive sessions and patient clinicals with a group of doctors. We even had a group outing to go bowling!

2012

8th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

Hosted near the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, MN USA, the conference provided patients and families with direct access to leading experts and the latest developments in melorheostosis research, diagnosis, and care.

2014

9th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

The largest and most informative conference to date, this gathering brought together patients, families, researchers, and clinicians from around the world. The event strengthened the global melorheostosis community while advancing conversations about research and treatment.

2016

Historic 10th Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

Patients traveled from across the globe to participate in the largest gathering of individuals affected by melorheostosis in history. The conference celebrated the community’s growth while supporting ongoing efforts to identify the disease’s cause and develop effective treatments.

2018

11th International Melorheostosis Conference

Rochester, Minnesota

Hosted near the Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, MN USA, at the Marriott, this conference provided patients and families with direct access to leading experts and the latest developments in melorheostosis research, diagnosis, and care. We reviewed the NIH Study details in depth discussed pain, surgery, the Shriners Hospital for Children and had a fireside discussion with our doctors and patients. At the end of the night, we let our hair down for a DJ Dance Party!

2021

12th International Melorheostosis Conference

Virtual

Held virtually, the conference connected patients and families from around the world with leading researchers and clinicians. Participants learned about exciting scientific advances while reconnecting with the global melorheostosis community in a true “family reunion” atmosphere.

2023

13th International Melorheostosis Conference

Bethesda, Maryland

The 13th International Conference united the global melorheostosis community to share groundbreaking research, clinical insights, and patient experiences. Through presentations from leading experts, interactive discussions, and community-building events, the conference advanced understanding of the disease while strengthening connections among patients, families, and researchers.

2025

14th International Melorheostosis Conference

Bethesda, Maryland

The 14th International Conference united the global melorheostosis community to explore the latest advances in research, drug development, pain management, and treatment strategies. Through expert presentations, patient-led discussions, and collaborative forums, the conference fostered learning, connection, and hope for the future of melorheostosis care and research.