From May 26th to 28th, 2025, Loeys-Dietz Canada proudly participated in the 29th Annual Canadian Connective Tissue Conference (CCTC), held in Montreal, Quebec. As a sponsor of this important scientific gathering, LDSFC was honoured to contribute to a conference that brings together Canada’s leading researchers, clinicians and industry partners to advance knowledge of connective tissue disorders.
Championing Rare Disease Advocacy on a National Stage
LDSFC’s presence was marked by several exciting contributions. We hosted an engaging booth throughout the conference, allowing us to connect with 123 attendees from across Canada and abroad, share educational resources, and build new partnerships with scientists and clinicians committed to advancing the field of heritable connective tissue disorders.
A major highlight for our organization was a special presentation delivered by our Executive Director, Jida El Hajjar.Jida’s talk, titled “From Rare to Recognized: Building a National Response to Loeys-Dietz Syndrome (LDS) and Heritable Thoracic Aortic Disease (HTAD)”, provided an overview of LDSFC’s mission, the challenges of rare disease diagnosis and care, and the progress we are making in building a comprehensive national response to these underrecognized conditions. Her session emphasized the critical need for early diagnosis, research collaboration, and patient-centered care strategies.
Supporting Emerging Talent and Scientific Excellence
In addition to her presentation, Jida also participated as a judge in the conference’s abstract poster competition, helping to evaluate the innovative work of emerging scientists and clinicians. With over 86 abstracts submitted and 54 posters presented, this year’s competition reflected the vibrancy and depth of ongoing research in connective tissue biology and disorders.
The conference maintained its unique tradition of empowering trainees, with scientific sessions co-chaired by young investigators and leadership opportunities embedded throughout the event. LDSFC was proud to support a conference that so clearly values the development of the next generation of researchers and healthcare leaders.
Looking Ahead
As an organization dedicated to raising awareness, improving patient outcomes, and advancing research for Loeys-Dietz syndrome and related conditions, LDSFC is proud to be part of the CCTC community. This conference is a vital space for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and advocacy, and we look forward to continuing our involvement in future years.
We extend our deepest thanks to the Canadian Connective Tissue Society (CCTS) and the 29th CCTC organizing committee for their exceptional work in hosting a truly impactful event. Together, we are making rare diseases recognized—and better understood.
To learn more about the Canadian Connective Tissue Society, visit: https://connective-tissue-canada.com
Stay in the loop of upcoming events like these here: https://loeysdietzcanada.org/get-involved/our-events/
