SCOUT MEETINGS SPOTLIGHT: BECKER EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT DAY 2024

Our Scout Meetings team approaches every event with a commitment to purpose and precision. The 2024 Becker Education and Engagement Day (BEED) is a prime example of how thoughtful preparation and patient-focused planning can foster meaningful conversations and connections. Held across six cities, BEED was much more than a gathering; it served the Becker muscular dystrophy community by encouraging education, dialogue, and access to crucial resources. 

Today, we’ll explore the deliberate planning that went into BEED and provide some insight into how Scout Meetings tailors events to meet attendees’ unique needs. From overcoming logistical challenges to creating welcoming spaces for participation, the event reflects our dedication to hosting gatherings that truly make a difference. 

Understanding Becker & BEED 

What is Becker Muscular Dystrophy? 

Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is a rare genetic condition that progressively weakens muscles due to changes in a gene on the X chromosome. This gene affects dystrophin, a protein vital for muscle strength. Because the gene is on the X chromosome, BMD primarily affects boys and men, though women can carry the gene without symptoms. 

Signs of BMD often begin in childhood or adolescence, with affected individuals facing difficulties performing activities such as climbing stairs or running. Over time, the weakness may extend to muscles involved in breathing or heart function. While the condition presents challenges, many individuals manage it with medical support, tools, and lifestyle adjustments. 

What is BEED? 

Becker Education and Engagement Day (BEED) brings together individuals living with BMD, their families, and medical experts to connect, learn, and support one another. BEED provides invaluable resources, including practical advice for managing BMD and updates on advancements in medical research and treatment. 

This inclusive event fosters community by offering attendees the chance to interact with doctors, therapists, and researchers. Families can meet others who share their experiences, creating connections and reinforcing they are not alone. BEED goes beyond information-sharing by building a supportive and empathetic atmosphere, leaving participants feeling hopeful and well-prepared for the challenges ahead. 

Event Highlights 

BEED 2024 was a transformational multi-location event designed to connect and empower the Becker community. We were thrilled to take part! On Saturday, September 28th, our top-notch crew led by Senior Program Manager Elizabeth Bicha hosted gatherings across the country in Dallas, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, Seattle, and St. Louis. 

2024’s attendance more than doubled compared to the previous year, marking a significant milestone in the event's reach and impact. This surge reflected both the growing need for such initiatives and the community’s trust in BEED as a space to connect, learn, and find valuable support. These events offered participants access to targeted resources and facilitated meaningful conversations in welcoming environments. 

What truly set BEED apart was its shift toward patient-centered planning. Each aspect of the event—from the agenda design to the setup of the venues—was intended to prioritize attendee comfort and collaboration, allowing participants to engage fully. This approach underscored the value of placing participants’ needs at the forefront of event planning. 

Stories of Patient Impact 

The impact of BEED 2024 extended far beyond education. It was a deeply emotional and supportive experience for attendees, as reflected in the stories shared by Program Managers. 

Senior Program Manager Elizabeth Bicha recounted the experience of a mother of an adult son with Becker muscular dystrophy. “She said she knew something was wrong with her son but couldn’t get a diagnosis. Finally, a doctor pulled her aside and suggested a specific hospital, which led to a diagnosis. She was relieved because she didn’t think her son was just “lazy”—she knew something was wrong,” Elizabeth shared. 

Another powerful moment involved the mother of an eight-year-old boy with Becker. “She was so relieved to see adult males with the disease,” Elizabeth explained. “As bad as that is, she was relieved to see that these men had successful careers and families.” This gave her reassurance and hope for her son’s future, even with the challenges of his diagnosis. 

Program Manager Annika Hermanson shared how one young man in his mid-twenties, diagnosed as an infant, found inspiration at BEED. “He explained how hard it was to balance doing everything while he still could physically, knowing he would lose mobility in the future. Hearing from others helped him gain insight and inspiration to manage his condition going forward.” 

The shared experiences also created strong bonds among families. Program Manager Kashae Allen described the gratitude expressed by many parents. “They were so glad they made the trip. Meeting other families with similar experiences showed them they weren’t in this alone,” she explained. 

These personal exchanges and the opportunity to connect with approachable specialists created an environment of trust, compassion, and shared understanding. The emotional resonance of the event was undeniable, underscoring the importance of creating spaces where patients and their families feel seen, heard, and supported. 

Scout’s Role in BEED 

Our Scout Meetings team specializes in organizing events that align with the unique needs of the life sciences and healthcare industries. BEED 2024 perfectly encapsulated our expertise in delivering patient-centered experiences with precision and care. 

For this event, we managed all aspects of planning, including venue logistics, personalized attendee communications, and the development of a customizable agenda tailored to the priorities of the Becker community. Our use of hybrid meeting technology ensured that participants could engage in person or virtually, expanding accessibility and impact. 

Through meticulous attention to detail, our team created a smooth and welcoming experience for all attendees. By taking care of the logistics and planning, we allowed participants to focus on what mattered most—engaging with the event content and building connections within their community. 

Challenges & Opportunities in Multi-Location Planning 

Organizing a patient-centered event across multiple locations introduces unique challenges. Successful events like BEED involve not only logistical coordination but also a deep understanding of the audience’s physical and emotional needs. 

Scout Meetings addressed these challenges by deploying a flexible, high-detail planning framework. Our ability to integrate efficient communication and inclusivity ensured that no aspect was overlooked. 

Our approach balances operational rigor with empathy. Patients and families often face barriers to attendance, such as accessibility concerns or emotional hurdles. Scout Meetings prioritizes these needs by crafting environments that reduce these obstacles, creating opportunities for connection and learning. 

Through this blend of operational expertise and human-focused solutions, we transform challenges into meaningful experiences that resonate on a personal level. 

Looking Ahead 

With the success of BEED 2024 as inspiration, the Scout Meetings team is determined to amplify the event’s impact in the future—starting with 2025’s meetings, which Scout has already been asked to coordinate. By incorporating patient feedback and exploring innovative approaches, we aim to elevate both the scope and value of this important gathering. 

We are committed to leveraging new advancements—be it expanded hybrid options, refined communication channels, or programs that encourage deeper engagement—to enrich the event experience. 

We also encourage life sciences organizations to consider Scout Meetings for their Investigators’ Meetings and event needs. Our ability to combine operational excellence with personal touch positions us uniquely to help foster meaningful connections and impactful outcomes. 

Click here to learn more about how Scout Meetings can support your next event, making it seamless, purposeful, and unforgettable. 

Saimah Awan joined Scout in 2006 as part of the Travel Staff team and became a full-time Program Manager in 2010. She advanced through roles of Senior Program Manager, Operations Manager of our London office and Vice President of Operations. Saimah now serves as Executive Vice President, Meeting Operations. Click here to connect with her on LinkedIn.