This insightful webinar explores hereditary neuropathies, with a particular focus on hereditary amyloidosis and the role of genetic testing in diagnosis and treatment. Discussions include how these nerve disorders impact the body and the latest advancements in care.
Dr. Amanda Peltier, Professor of Neurology and Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, reviews the most common hereditary neuropathies, delves into hereditary amyloidosis, and shares the latest treatments and management strategies. In addition, Shawna Feely, a Certified Genetic Counselor, guides us through the process of genetic testing and its importance in establishing a diagnosis. She also explains the crucial role of genetic counselors in medicine, and how they support patients through testing and diagnosis of inherited conditions. Art Still, former NFL player and advocate for amyloidosis awareness, shares his personal journey with hATTR Amyloidosis, shedding light on the challenges faced by those diagnosed with this rare genetic disease and the importance of early detection and awareness.
The program concluded with a Q&A session.
This webinar was generously sponsored by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals.
Dr. Amanda Peltier is a professor of neurology and medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She earned her medical degree from The Ohio State University and completed a neuromuscular fellowship at the University of Michigan. Board certified in neuromuscular medicine, Dr. Peltier specializes in neuromuscular and autonomic disorders, with a focus on clinical trials and biomarker development for polyneuropathy. She is the division chief of neuromuscular disorders at Vanderbilt, director of the ALS and MDA multidisciplinary centers, and a member of several specialized programs, including the Vanderbilt Autonomic Disorders Center and the Amyloid Multidisciplinary Program. Dr. Peltier is also president of the American Autonomic Society and a board member for the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy.
Shawna Feely is a Certified Genetic Counselor specializing in genetic conditions affecting the nervous system. With over two decades of experience, she has helped build programs at institutions like Wayne State University, the University of Iowa Hospital, and Seattle Children’s Hospital. Shawna’s work includes clinical research and patient care, particularly in inherited neuropathies like Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. She has contributed to gene discovery in neuromuscular disorders and served on medical advisory boards for patient advocacy groups. Shawna is dedicated to partnering with families to develop new treatments and cures for genetic nervous system disorders.
Art Still is a former NFL player who spent 12 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. A standout defensive end, Art was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and the Chiefs’ MVP twice. In 2014, he was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame after an impressive career at the University of Kentucky, where he was a consensus first-team All-American and SEC Player of the Year. Diagnosed with hATTR Amyloidosis, Art now works to raise awareness for this rare genetic disease affecting many in the African American community.
