Dr. Patrick Allen

Specialist in Rare Disease Advocacy

Dr. Patrick Allen is a specialist in rare disease advocacy at the Advocacy Center for Rare Diseases, leading a project to enhance advocacy efforts for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. His work includes developing advocacy strategies, collaborating with researchers, and implementing advocacy campaigns to strengthen support for Spinal Muscular Atrophy patients. Dr. Allen's approach emphasizes the importance of collaboration between patient advocacy groups and researchers to ensure that advocacy efforts are well-informed and impactful. He works closely with patients and their families to understand their needs and advocate for policies and programs that address these needs. Dr. Allen's dedication to advocacy has led to significant advancements in support for Spinal Muscular Atrophy patients, improving their quality of life and fostering a stronger community of advocates.

Dr. Jennifer Smith

Expert in Patient-Centered Research

Dr. Jennifer Smith is an expert in patient-centered research at the Rare Disease Research Center, focusing on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. She leads projects to enhance patient participation in research, develop participation guidelines, recruit patient participants, and conduct patient-centered research activities. Dr. Smith's work emphasizes the importance of including patients' perspectives in research, ensuring that studies are relevant and beneficial to those affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Her collaborative approach involves working closely with patient advocacy groups and families to identify research priorities and design studies that address their needs. Dr. Smith's dedication to patient engagement has transformed the research landscape for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, fostering a more inclusive and impactful approach to scientific inquiry.