SYMPOSIUM

ANA 19th National Symposium
August 14-16, 2009 ~ Chicago, IL

Sponsored by:
Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery
Department of Neurosurgery
Northwestern University
Feinberg School of Medicine
Chicago, IL

Hosted by:
Richard J. Wiet, MD, FACS, Northwestern University & Ear Institute of Chicago

Organizing Committee:
Richard J. Wiet, MD
Alan Micco, MD
James Chandler, MD

Overview
Come and be a part of the 19th National Symposium of the Acoustic Neuroma Association taking place August 14-16, 2009 at The Drake Hotel in Chicago, Illinois.

The Symposium is sponsored by the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and the Department of Neurosurgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, IL hosted by Richard J. Wiet, MD, FACS. Under his leadership, the planning committee is bringing together an outstanding faculty team, taking advantage of the knowledge on the ANA Medical Advisory Board and other experts from around the United States.

This biennial event brings together pre-and post-treatment acoustic neuroma patients, family members, friends and health care professionals for a weekend of educational workshops, panel discussions with leading physicians and an opportunity to learn and network for all.

If you are interested in expert opinions, opportunities to explore new treatment options, and sharing thoughts and experiences about acoustic neuroma with others, mark your calendar now to attend the 2009 ANA National Symposium in Chicago.


"This was my first symposium, and I felt very welcome
and now feel so much more informed and even more at
peace with my AN experience."

Meeting Location
All events for the 19th National Symposium of the Acoustic Neuroma Association will be held at The Drake Hotel, located on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, Illinois.
Chicago is often called a friendly city – and you will agree when you accept this warm invitation. It looks great from every angle; whether you´re exploring the astonishing architecture during a guided tour, or you´re enjoying the bird´s-eye view from the Sears Tower Skydeck or the Hancock Observatory. The city´s 29 miles of lakefront paths are just one reason Chicago is one of the world´s most walkable and beautiful cities.

The Drake Hotel is a Chicago landmark and has been a symbol of elegance for over 80 years. This hotel is a treasure of Chicago, and the first choice of celebrities and heads-of-state since its opening in 1920. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the Gold Coast, overlooking Lake Michigan, across from Oak Street Beach, and right on the Magnificent Mile. The Drake Hotel offers exquisite accommodations, an array of modern amenities, and puts its guests in the center of Chicago's exciting shopping, nightlife, culture and dining experiences.

Hotel Accomodations
Drake Hotel
140 East Walton Place
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-787-2200
Fax: 312-787-1431
www.thedrakehotel.com

A block of rooms with a special room rate of $199.00 plus tax (currently 15.4%) per night for single/double occupancy has been arranged for Symposium attendees; please ask for the “ANA Symposium” room block rate.

We strongly encourage you to take advantage of this special rate and location, and make your reservations as soon as possible by calling group reservations at 1-800-564-7602; or by booking through the group web page at http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/CHIDHHH-ANA-20090811/index.jhtml

Please note the Drake Hotel has a limited supply of guest rooms with two double beds available, so please make your housing arrangements early. If you need assistance regarding accommodations, please contact the ACS Management Office at 312-202-5322.

Reservations must be made by Tuesday, July 21, 2009. Reservation requests received after this cut-off date, or after the room block fills, will be subject to availability.


Hotel Features
Hotel facilities include a well-equipped fitness center, a fully staffed business center and a number of arcade level specialty shops including Chanel, George Jensen, Kamp Galleries, Mangel Florist and Travel Traders. The hotel also offers multiple dining options on property and 24-hour room service.

Hotel Guest Room Features
All guest rooms feature high style furnishings, Italian marble bathrooms, and Serenity beds. Highlights and amenities include: mini-bar, over-sized closets, high-speed internet, executive desk with phone and data port, phones in bathroom and at bedside, television with gratis cable and movie channel, pay-per-view movies, Nintendo game system, dual-line telephone system, video games, caller ID, hair dryer, iron/ironing board, coffee maker and a full-length mirror.

Dining
The Drake Hotel features some of the finest dining and entertainment.
  • Coq d'Or – ever popular for cocktails and dinner
  • The Cape Cod Room – award-winning for its seafood, featuring a small oyster bar
  • Drake Bros.' – unsurpassable views combined with famous steakhouse, featuring the best steaks in Chicago paired with fine wines
  • The Palm Court – afternoon tea, a Drake Hotel tradition, luncheons and live harp music daily
  • Twenty-four-hour room service
Airports & Transportation
If you are traveling to Chicago by air you can take advantage of flying into either O’Hare International Airport or Midway Airport. Both airports are approximately 45 minutes to one hour travel time to The Drake Hotel.

Both of Chicago’s major airports, O’Hare International Airport and Midway Airport, are approximately 15 miles from The Drake Hotel. Transportation to The Drake Hotel is available by--
  • Taxi—current averages $45-$50
  • Continental Airport Express Bus Shuttle—current averages $22-$30
  • Train—current $2-$3 on the Blue or Orange Line
Parking
Valet parking is available at the hotel. Current valet rate for overnight guests is $48.00. The hotel does not offer self-parking. There are nearby self-park garages, but they are not associated with the hotel; one is located next door to the hotel at the Drake Towers at 174 East Walton Place.

Room Rates
A block of rooms with a special room rate of $199.00 plus tax (currently 15.4%) per night for single/double occupancy has been arranged for Symposium attendees; please ask for the “ANA Symposium” room block rate

We strongly encourage you to take advantage of this special rate and location, and make your reservations as soon as possible by calling group reservations at 1-800-564-7602; or by booking through the group web page at http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/CHIDHHH-ANA-20090811/index.jhtml

Reservations must be made by Tuesday, July 21, 2009. Reservation requests received after this cut-off date, or after the room block fills, will be subject to availability.


Registration
All symposium participants MUST register for the meeting. Full registration is all inclusive and includes admission to all general sessions, workshops, Friday Gatherings and Supper, Saturday breakfast buffet, lunch, reception and banquet and Sunday brunch.

Tickets will be in your registration packet for Friday Gatherings and Supper, Saturday Reception and Banquet and Sunday Brunch, but you must indicate your will attend.

Guests of the main registrant
will be assessed the same full registration fee as the main registrant or the selected day rate. Please be sure to indicate the appropriate fee on the registration form to determine your total registration fees.


Advance Registration Deadline:
Online or postmarked by July 1, 2009

Late Registration:
After July 1, 2009


Cancellation and Refund
Cancellation and refund requests must be submitted in writing by Wednesday, July 1, 2009. A 10% deduction will be made from the registration fee to cover administrative expenses. After July 2, 2009, there will be no refunds.

Workshops
CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) will be provided for all the General Sessions and some workshops as noted on the program.


Who Should Attend the Symposium and Why?
Every two years ANA presents their national symposium for pre-and post-treatment acoustic neuroma patients, family members, friends and health care professionals for a weekend of educational lectures, workshops and panel discussions–all with leading acoustic neuroma medical professionals. It’s an opportunity for all to learn about acoustic neuromas and to network with healthcare professionals and other acoustic neuroma patients. Under the leadership of Richard J. Wiet, MD, FACS, the planning committee has assembled an outstanding faculty, taking advantage of the expertise on the ANA Medical Advisory Board, as well as other experts from a variety of specialties and institutions from around the United States.


"The topics for the workshops as well as
the panel discussions were all so relevant."

If you are interested in expert opinions, opportunities to explore new treatment options, post-treatment discussions and sharing experiences about acoustic neuroma with others, mark your calendar now to attend the 2009 ANA National Symposium in Chicago at The Drake Hotel.

Education
  • General sessions and workshops presented by leading acoustic neuroma medical professionals
  • Information presented on issues of interest to pre- and post-treatment patients by leading acoustic neuroma medical professionals
  • Individual 15 minute information sessions with medical professionals in areas of acoustic neuroma treatments
  • Exhibit area where you can examine, question and evaluate the latest developments in equipment, supplies and services that relate to acoustic neuroma

    Networking
  • Social time to allow you to connect with other AN patients from across the country – others who have “walked in your shoes”
  • Table topics at meal time to allow you to talk with others who have your same interests and concerns

    Time with the Experts
  • Q & A time after general sessions and workshops
  • Opportunity to network with leading acoustic neuroma experts from across the country
  • Individual information session – 15-minute private one-on-one time with an acoustic neuroma expert

    If you are a newly diagnosed patient
  • Opportunity to receive information about the latest AN treatment options
  • Opportunity to network with other AN patients who have just been diagnosed and with others who are post-treatment

    If you are a post-treatment patient
  • Opportunity to receive information on dealing with your individual AN complication
  • Opportunity to network with other AN patients who share your same post-treatment issues – sharing knowledge, tips and comfort

    If you are a watch and wait patient
  • Opportunity to receive information about the latest AN treatment options to help you decide when treatment may or may not be necessary
  • Opportunity to network with other AN patients who are also watching and waiting – sharing knowledge and coping tips

    If you are a family member/caregiver
  • Opportunity to attend the workshop specifically targeted to your needs – Caregivers Clinic
  • Opportunity to provide support for the patient by learning more about AN so that you can provide informational support as well as physical and emotional support


  • "...I learned a tremendous amount and the interaction with the doctors and attendees was wonderful."

    Social Time - Registration fee includes all social events listed below
    Friday from 6:30 - 9:00 PM
    Friday Night Gathering and Supper. Roundtable discussion with table topics and the added bonus of an AN medical professional at many tables.

    Saturday Breakfast from 8:00 – 9:00 AM
    Table topics to assist you with networking so you can connect with others who share your experiences.

    Saturday Lunch from 12:30 – 1:30 PM
    Table topics to assist you with networking so you can connect with others who share your experiences.

    Saturday Reception and Banquet from 6:00 – 9:00 PM
    Reception with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with Banquet dinner and entertainment.

    Sunday Brunch from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
    Inspirational speaker – Michael Gates Gill, noted author of How Starbucks Saved My Life. Michael is a 5 year watch and wait acoustic neuroma patient.


    What to do in the Chicago - the Chicago Scene
    In addition to an outstanding educational experience, there will be plenty of time to explore downtown Chicago. Take time to wander the famous Magnificent Mile, which is right outside the doors of The Drake Hotel. The Magnificent Mile, also known as North Michigan Avenue, is filled with fun family entertainment and exciting adventures. Throughout the city you will experience outstanding theater, classic or on-the-edge comedy, inspirational music, modern sculpture and celebrated works of art while immersed in the timeless beauty of Chicago's famous architecture which can be admired by boat, trolley or on foot. There are also countless parks within the city, and two of the favorites are Lincoln Park and Millennium Park. You can head north and go "wild" at Lincoln Park's zoo or you can venture south on Michigan Avenue and explore Millennium Park, which has become a 24.5 acre crowning achievement for Chicago in the tradition of its original founders. No matter where or in what your interests lie, there is no end to what you can do in Chicago!

    Popular Chicago Attractions
    Navy Pier
    Navy Pier is the place where residents and visitors from around the world have come together since 1995 to enjoy the beauty and the thrills of a day on Lake Michigan. There is so much to do with the 50 acres of gardens and promenades, from rides to restaurants, exhibitions to entertainment, shopping to dining cruises and tour boats. Visit http://www.navypier.com for more information.


    Museum Campus
    The pretty, lakefront Museum Campus mixes 57 acres of greenery with three celebrated city museums: The Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium and Field Museum. Founded in 1998, the area is accessible and ideal for folks looking to brush up on history or enjoy an afternoon by the lake. Visitors can check out Orion's belt, sit in on a dolphin show and study dinosaur fossils—with just a pleasant, lakeside stroll between sights—all in just one day.

    John Hancock Observatory
    The 94th-floor observatory, more than 1,000 feet above Chicago, is located just two blocks from the hotel. The observation deck features an open-air Skywalk; Sky Tours, which takes you on a personal audio tour of Chicago's incredible sights and remarkable history; Soundscope 3-D "talking" telescopes that speak in four languages and create startling real sound effects; a Chicago history wall; and a theme park-style ticketing area that recreates the construction of the John Hancock Center. Visit http://www.hancock-observatory.com for more information.

    Lincoln Park Zoo
    This free urban zoo is a world of wildlife in the shadow of skyscrapers, located within a verdant park just minutes north of The Drake Hotel. The zoo has been a natural, free oasis for generations of animal lovers, who come to hear a lion’s roar echo off nearby apartment buildings, see gorillas climb trees as the Sears Tower looms in the distance, or forget where they are as they immerse themselves in tropical rainforests, dry-thorn forests or spacious savannas. Visit http://www.lpzoo.org for more information.

    Broadway in Chicago
    Broadway in Chicago theatres are located in the heart of the Downtown Theatre District. The theatres consistently present a variety of the finest in touring Broadway musicals, plays and dance. Visit http://www.broadwayinchicago.com for more information.

    For more information on Chicago attractions, we encourage you to visit the
    official Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau’s website at http://www.choosechicago.com/meetinchicago


    For More Information
    ANA has arranged for the American College of Surgeons Association Management Services to help with arrangements and registration for the 19th National Symposium.
    • For more meeting information, please contact Carrie Balzer at 312-202-5322 or by email at cbalzer@facs.org
    • For more registration information, please contact Stephanie Flynn at 312-202-5244 or by email at sflynn@facs.org
    Registrations and payment should be mailed or faxed to:
    ANA
    c/o American College of Surgeons
    Attn: Registration Services
    633 N. Saint Clair
    Chicago, IL 60611
    Fax: 312-202-5003 or 800-682-0252

    You can also register online at the ANA website at www.ANAUSA.org.





    ANA
    600 Peachtree Pkwy.
    Suite 108
    Cumming, GA 30041
    Phone: 770-205-8211 or
    1-877-200-8211
    Fax: 770-205-0239 or
    1-877-202-0239
    Email:info@anausa.org


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