Sharon S. Denny, USA

Presentation

In the majority of families, FTD is not inherited. For a portion of people with FTD, it is.  As each individual and family receiving an FTD diagnosis adjusts to a new reality, it is natural to wonder if others close to them may also be at risk of developing FTD.  Because of seeing the impact of the disease on a family member, this is perhaps the most difficult and personal question to ask.  The complex biology of FTD also makes it complicated to answer.  In this session we will introduce FTD genetics and provide information and resources to empower you to ask and understand potential risk, knowing you are not alone.

Bio

is Senior Director of Programs at The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD). A passionate advocate for people living with FTD and their families, she provides vision and leadership that ensure AFTD’s care services, education, advocacy and engagement of the FTD community in research integrate cohesively to advance the mission. Since joining AFTD in 2008 she has championed the inclusion of people living with FTD and currently underserved geographic, racial, ethnic and socioeconomic communities. She has significantly expanded AFTD’s core support services and the education of healthcare professionals, established a grassroots advocacy network and built a national volunteer program. She serves on national committees and workgroups addressing the development and delivery of dementia care and services. Ms. Denny has an MA in Clinical Psychology from West Chester University and a BA in psychology from the College of the Holy Cross.