On September 19, the 2026 Face Forward Patient Support Summit will bring together patients, caregivers, clinicians and advocates for an inspiring day of connection, education, and empowerment.
This event will feature:
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Expert medical presentations on the latest RHS research and treatment advances
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Interactive workshops and wellness sessions for patients and caregivers
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Networking and advocacy opportunities to strengthen our growing community
Event Agenda
8:00 am
Check-in and Breakfast
8:45 am
Welcome Address
Dr. Nancy Fisher, President of RHSF
9:00 am
What is RHS?
Do you wonder if Botox is right for you? Are you worried about getting RHS again?
What is synkinesis and why is it happening to you? Do you want to have more information to share with your family and friends about your hearing loss or balance issues? Then this is the session for you! A panel of clinical experts share their knowledge of RHS – its causes, symptoms, treatment options & what we know about recovery and possible prevention.
10:00 am
Easing the Tension
During this hands-on workshop, led by three of the world’s top facial nerve therapists, you will practice techniques for facial massage and get individualized help and feedback. We will also practice some “mind over muscle.” You will learn how to relax your face and discourage synkinesis.
11:00 am
Metamorphosis: Who We Become After Facial Paralysis
Author Dr. Faye Linda Wach shares her journey with facial palsy and lessons learned from interviewing 100 people living with facial difference. She shares all, through microaggressions, identity, and the path to resilience.
11:30 am
Lunch
Launch of our latest project, an RHSF-supported network of online support groups. Nancy and members of the patient advocacy board will update everyone on this exciting project.
12:30 pm
Facing the Pain
Dr. Wolfgang Liedtke, world-renowned facial pain expert, shares his knowledge of about why Ramsay Hunt Syndrome can cause persistent facial Pain.
1:00 pm
Ask the Experts: a Rapid Fire Treatment Roundtable
Clinicians and therapists share the latest treatments available for balance, hearing loss, pain, and facial paralysis.
2:00 pm
Mindfullness and RHS
Mindfulness and RHS world-renowned facial nerve therapist Mara Robinson, PT, MS, explains the science behind meditation and mindfulness and teaches us practical techniques to incorporate into daily recovery.
2:30 pm
Closing Remarks
A Patient Perspective from Howard Stall author of Not a Survivor, Still Me: Ramsay Hunt, Bell’s Palsy, and the Identity No One Talks About.
3:00 pm
Reception
Time to reflect on the day and continue to build connections over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
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Accommodations
Need accommodations and/or coming from out of town?
The closest airport is Raleigh Durham International.
We have a reserved a limited number of rooms at the Courtyard by Marriott Chapel Hill a very short walking distance from the Friday Center.
179.00 USD per night
Last Day to Book: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
To make a reservation by phone: 919-883-0700
Or
Book your group rate for Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Foundation Patient Support Summit here.
Why Partner with Us
By sponsoring this event, your company will:
Demonstrate leadership in health advocacy and corporate social responsibility
Gain brand visibility among patients, clinicians, and national health organizations
Be recognized as a changemaker supporting research, recovery, and resilience
Connect directly with an engaged and motivated community
Your support helps bring education, awareness, and healing to people whose lives have been profoundly affected by Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
Sponsors Supporting Our Mission
Thank You
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors for their generous support.
Your contributions are vital for education, advocacy and raising awareness for
Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
MUSC Facial Nerve Center
