Join us for a day of connection, inspiration, and action.
The Brumm Patient Advocacy Summit brings together rare disease patients, families, students, healthcare providers, industry leaders, and researchers to share lived experiences, exchange ideas, and explore advocacy in action.
Highlights of the 2025 Summit:
- Keynote from Bryce Walker (ND ’24)—two-time Notre Dame lacrosse national champion living with sarcoidosis—alongside powerful stories from others in the rare disease community
- Poster presentations showcasing student–community partnerships
- NEW: Interactive workshop with the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) on translating patient stories into advocacy action by discovering and mobilizing community resources.
- NEW: Rare Rally, a family-friendly celebration of Notre Dame gameday tradition with tailgate games, face painting, ND crafts, and ice cream from the Paddy Shack. Families not attending the Summit are still welcome to join; registration is required.
View the at-a-glance schedule.
There is no cost to attend the Summit, and all are welcome. Questions? Please contact Katrina Conrad, Program Manager for the Patient Advocacy Initiative. Registration is now closed, though we welcome you to join us via livestream:
Click here to livestream on Friday, October 3 at 10:00am
Supply Drive for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana
As part of this year's Summit, we are collecting items to support families staying at the local Ronald McDonald House in Downtown South Bend. Summit guests are encouraged to shop the RMHC Michiana Amazon Wish Lists or bring new, unused items such as toiletries, individually packaged snacks, and activity supplies for children and families.
If you’re traveling and unable to bring donations with you, or if you can’t attend but still wish to participate, you may send items directly to:
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana
610 N Michigan St. STE 310
South Bend, IN, 46601-1080