Event Type: In Person & Virtual
RegisterCORD’s Annual Fall Conference will bring together patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, government, industry and community leaders to help shape the next phase of rare disease care in Canada.
Building on CORD’s Rare Disease Readiness Assessment, the Rare Disease Drug Strategy, advances in diagnosis and precision medicine, and the lived experiences of patients and families, the conference will focus on practical ways to improve diagnosis, treatment, coordinated care, data and community support.
We’re thrilled to welcome an amazing lineup of speakers, including:
- Hon. Mike Ellis — Government of Alberta
- Josie Godfrey — RareCare / Realise Advocacy
- Kelly Robinson — Health Canada
- Suzanne McGurn — Canada’s Drug Agency
- Mauro Chies — pCPA
- Thierry Lacaze — RareKids-CAN
- Dr. Michael Mackley — IWK Health Centre
- Rachel Brothers — Amyloid Action
- Susi Vander Wyk — Cure SMA Canada
We’ll also hear from Natasha Hepburn, Parent Advocate, who will share her son’s treatment journey and how her family’s public advocacy, fundraising and appeals to BC Health helped secure access to treatment in another country.
And these are just some of the amazing speakers joining us in Halifax, with many more featured throughout the two-day program. Explore the full agenda to see all speakers and sessions.
Can’t join us in person? Virtual participation is also available, so you can take part from wherever you are.
For those joining us in Halifax, Day One will wrap up with a Networking Reception.
Hotel Reservations
A discounted group rate is available at the Delta Hotels Halifax Downtown for conference attendees.
Rate: $229 CAD/night
Reservation Deadline: October 21, 2026
CORD is pleased to offer a limited number of scholarships to support participation in this event, both in person and virtually. Travel scholarships are available to help offset travel costs for patients, caregivers and representatives of rare disease organizations. Please review the scholarship guidelines for additional details. *Currently, priority for travel scholarships will be given to applicants who are located closer to Halifax and throughout Atlantic Canada.
Registration Level
Please select a registration level and click the NEXT button to proceed to the next step in the registration process.