SSSA 2010
Conference

July 9 - July 11, 2010
Arlington, Texas
Sheraton Hotel

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people come to the conference?
Average attendance is about 60 families for a total of 175 people. The majority come from the USA and Canada and there are usually some families from overseas too. You'll meet about 50 people with Sotos of all ages from infants and toddlers to teens and adults.

Do I have to bring my child with Sotos?
Most families bring their child with Sotos, especially if it is their first conference. This is the easiest way to meet with one of the medical experts and get definite confirmation of your child's diagnosis and discuss any questions. Some people don't bring their child with Sotos if travelling is difficult or expensive or if they have attended numerous conferences and simply wish to stay in touch with fellow Sotos families. Another consideration is that children with Sotos often appreciate the opportunity to meet other individuals with Sotos who are "just like me". With or without - either way is fine.

Can I still have a doctor's appointment if I don't bring my child with Sotos?
Yes, just bring photos and your child's medical records.

Is there an extra charge for a doctor's appointment?
No, it's included in the conference fee.

What about bringing other children?
We provide professional childcare throughout the conference for all the children with Sotos and their typical siblings. We aim to make sure that all the children have a great time. Many families make the Sotos Conference part of their annual holiday and take the opportunity to visit new parts of the country. Sometimes older siblings benefit from meeting other families dealing with Sotos and learning that they are not alone.

What is there for my young adult with Sotos to do at the conference?
He/She may either register as an adult and attend the workshops, or register as a child/assisted adult and take part in the fun activities on Saturday and Sunday with the older teens.

Can I bring my infant to the lectures with me instead of paying for childcare?
Yes, as long as they are completely quiet. You must be prepared to leave the lecture if they are disturbing anyone.

My children don't need supervision (or another friend/relative is coming along to watch them) so I won't be using the conference childcare. Do I need to register them for the conference?
No, but if they will be attending the Friday evening dinner/entertainment, they still need to pay for their meal. Please contact us for prices. Separate pricing for Sunday breakfast is not available.

Which meals are included in the conference?
The registration fee includes Friday dinner, Saturday lunch and Sunday breakfast for adults and children. You are responsible for the rest of your meals.

What flight times should I book?
Your flight times depend on whether you want to have a doctor appointment or not. The main part of the conference takes place from 5 p.m. on Friday until Noon on Sunday BUT this does not include the doctor appointments. First time attendees will have their doctor appointments on Sunday afternoon. They should arrive at the hotel by 4 p.m. on Friday and stay until 5 p.m. on Sunday. Repeat attendees will have their doctor appointments on Friday afternoon. They should arrive at the hotel by Noon on Friday and stay until Noon on Sunday.

Will I receive confirmation of my registration?
Yes. We'll e-mail you approximately 2 weeks after we receive your registration forms and payment. Or send you a letter by regular mail if you don't have e-mail (will take about 4 weeks).

Where is the next conference?
The 2011 conference will be in Williamsburg, Virginia. In 2012 we are aiming to head West but an exact location has not been finalized.

What airport should I fly to?
The closest major airport is the Dallas/Forth Worth (DFW) International Airport. The Sheraton Arlington hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to and from DFW airport. Depending on traffic, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to get from DFW airport to the hotel. Another option is to fly to Love Field. Love Field is slightly further away but it is a hub for Southwest Airlines. Conference attendees would have to provide their own transportation from Love Field to the hotel.

I still have more questions. How can I get more information?
You can e-mail conference@sotossyndrome.org or phone 1-888-246-7772.

What happens if I cancel my conference registration?
Cancellation requests received by 1 week before the start of the conference will receive a full refund. Other requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. You can e-mail your cancellation to conference@sotossyndrome.org or phone 1-888-246-7772.