The International Rett Syndrome Foundation has prioritized making ASCEND 2024 as affordable as possible to allow attendees from all socio-economic backgrounds to participate. We recognize that costs incurred to travel to and attend the summit create a financial hardship for some who would benefit greatly from participation in this event. We have established The Summit Scholarship Fund in an effort to provide financial support to those who apply for financial assistance.

To apply for financial assistance through The Summit Scholarship Fund, please click here. Applications are due by February 1, 2024, and scholarship recipients will be notified in mid-February.

There are also several outside opportunities available for family financial support:

• If your loved one with Rett is on Medicare, Medicaid, or a Home and Community-based waiver, there may be financial opportunities available for families to travel or be reimbursed for educational conferences like ASCEND. Reach out to your case manager to find out what opportunities are available in your state and how to apply.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): The Rare Disease Educational Support Program is designed to offer rare disease patients, their families and/or caregivers an opportunity to participate in educational programs and conferences that offer rare disease content. NORD’s program provides financial support for registration costs and limited assistance with associated travel and lodging costs for conference participation. Assistance is based on eligibility criteria and funding availability.