"We believe that the best science happens when the physicians who study these diseases and the families who live with them are in genuine partnership. That is not just our philosophy; it is our origin story."
— chILD Foundation
This is not just a community of parents and physicians — it is one of the only places in the world where children with chILD can meet others who truly understand. For many of our youngest patients, meeting another child like them for the first time is one of the most powerful moments of their lives.
Four parallel tracks run concurrently so that cutting-edge science, whole-patient care, family education, and patient empowerment happen together — under one roof, in real time.
Conference Programming
Four tracks run simultaneously throughout the conference — and you are welcome to move between them freely. Every session is designed to be accessible and valuable.
Clinicians, Researchers & Translational Scientists
State-of-the-science sessions on chILD disorders and rare pediatric lung disease, with strong emphasis on translational research and Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER).
Nurses, Social Workers, Respiratory Therapists
Practical, team-based education for every member of the care team — focused on the day-to-day realities of managing complex pediatric lung disease.
Parents, Caregivers & Loved Ones
A unique opportunity to learn directly from the physicians and scientists who helped define these disorders and who are actively working to improve outcomes.
Children, Teens & Young Adults with chILD
One of the few places in the world where chILD patients of all ages gather together and know they are not alone. Dedicated programming designed just for them.
Why Families Come Back
There will be many opportunities throughout the conference for physicians, researchers, care teams, and families to meet socially. The bonds formed here — with other families who truly understand and with physicians who inspire hope — become some of the most important relationships of their lives.
"I came to my first conference as a new chILD mom feeling scared, alone, and overwhelmed. I left with a plan to get to a chILD center and lifelong friends that have helped me along this journey. That conference transformed my life."— chILD Family Conference Attendee
The Location
Chapel Hill sits at the heart of the Research Triangle — home to UNC, Duke, and NC State, a region renowned for biomedical innovation and academic medicine. A natural setting for a conference at the leading edge of rare lung disease research.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers direct flights from major U.S. cities. Hotel block details will be announced in 2026.
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One of the South's most celebrated culinary destinations
3 hours away — waterfalls, hiking, and Asheville
3 hours east — Cape Hatteras's wild beaches
Speaker announcements, registration, and hotel details coming soon. Be the first to know.
Sign Up for UpdatesRegistration and hotel block details will be announced in 2026.
