Take Up Space

November 1-3, 2024 - Atlanta, Georgia

We Are ILL’s Wellness Week(end) is the premier event for Black women living with multiple sclerosis, and serves as a safe, welcoming space where health, wellness, education and connection are prioritized. We’re also welcoming spouses, caregivers, support partners, friends and family whose loved ones are affected by MS. Our signature event provides resources that foster positive habits and behaviors, while also offering myriad opportunities to get involved and bond with other sisters in MS from around the world. We encourage attendees to pursue emotional, intellectual, social, optimal spiritual and physical habits for a satisfying life within the MS community. Living with MS presents obstacles that are unique to each individual, and for Black women living with MS, the challenges can be even more complex. That’s why Wellness Week(end) was curated with YOU in mind! It’s a place unlike any other for you to rest and recharge, and we can’t wait to see you there.


This year’s Wellness Week(end) theme is “Take Up Space.” This theme is all about us stepping into our power, owning our presence, and filling every room with our authentic selves. It’s a call to not just exist but to boldly and unapologetically be present in every aspect of our lives, especially when it comes to our wellness and healthcare. “Take Up Space” is a continuation of We Are ILL’s word of the year: “Activate.” In this season, we’re not sitting back and letting life happen to us. We’re activating our voices and our choices in our health and wellness journeys. We’re moving from being passive to being active participants. Let’s take up space in our wellness journeys, in our healthcare decisions, and in every area of our lives.


We will be hosting Wellness Week(end) 2024 from November 1 to November 3 at Renaissance Atlanta Midtown, and we invite you to join us for a three-night stay, from Thursday, October 31 (check in) to Sunday, November 3 (check out). The cutoff date to reserve your room at the discounted rate of $199 per night is Monday, September 30, 2024.


Wellness Week(end) is brought to you by We Are ILL, a 501(c)(3) patient advocacy organization with a mission to redefine what “sick” looks like for Black women living with multiple sclerosis (MS). To donate, click HERE.

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Event Details

DATE:

Friday, November 1, 2024 - Sunday, November 3, 2024

Location:

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown, 866 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

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Agenda

  • DAY 1 - “MIND” [FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1]
      • Opening Remarks
      • Keynote Address
      • Insurance Insights: Navigating Coverage with MS (Neisha Comegna) - Don’t let the complexities of insurance prevent you from receiving the care you deserve. This session is your chance to transform confusion into confidence and apprehension into empowerment.
      • Someone I Love Has MS (Amber Cunningham) - Exploring the depths of how to best support a loved one who lives with MS
      • Beauty Shop Convos (Dr. Jacqueline Rosenthal and Dr. Jakai Nolan) - The beauty shop has always been a sacred space for Black women to come together and share their life experiences. In this session, we reimagine patient-provider relationships as a HCP and MS patient engage in an intimate conversation while getting their hair styled.
      • Thriving with MS for a Lifetime (Connie O’Neal-Bates and Dr. Mary Hughes) - A conversation exploring pathways to wellness and longevity while thriving with MS throughout a lifetime
  • DAY 2 - “BODY” [SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2]
      • Yoga Session
      • Support Group - Care Partners and Loved Ones (Charmaine Turner)
      • Support Groups - Persons Living with MS (Nwandi Williams)
      • How to Tell Your Story (We Are ILL Team) - WAI will host a session that helps attendees learn how to amplify their voices at patient advocates.
      • Participating in Clinical Trials / Research (Dr. Annette Okai and Blair Burleson) - Hearing from actual clinical trial participants on their experiences and the many benefits of participation.
      • Love, Intimacy and MS (Goody Howard) - Exploring the complexities of dating, intimacy, and marriage while navigating the challenges of MS, fostering open dialogue and support within relationships
      • Treating the Whole Person: Integrative Medicine and MS (Dr. Mitzi Joi Wiliams) - With the increased use of integrative medicine (IM) over the past decade, we’ll explore the many types of IM with an experienced practitioner.
  • DAY 3 - “SOUL” [SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3]
      • “And I’m Telling You” About My Story: A Q&A with Jennifer Holliday
      • Musical Performance (Jennifer Holliday) - An inspirational performance that closes out our wonderful weekend with joy and hope.
      • Closing Remarks (Victoria Reese) - We Are ILL’s Founder and CEO, Victoria Reese, closes out Wellness Week(end) with a call to action.
      • Group Photo (Wear your best maroon-colored outfit)

Past Wellness Weekend Recap Highlights

Ready To Make History Together?

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Hotel

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown

All conference activities and events will occur at Renaissance Atlanta Midtown:

866 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

We highly encourage attendees to stay at the hotel and take advantage of the discounted hotel rate of $199 per night for the conference.

Book Now

Event Summary: Wellness Week(end) Hotel Room Block

Start Date:

Thursday, October 31, 2024

Last Day to Book:

Monday, September 30, 2024

End Date:

Monday, November 4, 2024

Special Group Rate:

$199 per night

Sponsors

Please click on the brand logos below to read about our generous sponsors.

  • Gold Sponsor

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  • Silver Sponsor

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  • Silver Sponsor

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  • Silver Sponsor

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  • Silver Sponsor

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  • Friends Sponsor

Friends Sponsor

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  • Friends Sponsor

Friends Sponsor

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Get Tickets

Includes: Welcome Happy Hour (Drinks, DJ & Fun Included), Founder Opening Remarks, Access to ALL Info Sessions, Access to ALL Wellness Sessions, Panel Discussions from World-Class Speakers, Closing Keynote w/ Brunch, “Sunday Service,” Access to Wellness Marketplace, Gift Bag

General Tickets

$175

Includes: *Everything Included From General Tickets Plus: Skip the Line Access, Premium VIP Seating, VIP Only Dinner including Meet and Greet + Photo Ops, exclusive VIP Gift Bag, a massage

VIP Tickets

$350
Get Tickets
Buy Now, Pay Later With

Get Tickets

(Early Bird) General Tickets

$325

  • Welcome Happy Hour (Drinks, DJ & Fun Included)
  • Founder Opening Remarks
  • Access to ALL Info Sessions
  • Access to ALL Wellness Sessions
  • Panel Discussions from World-Class Speakers
  • Closing Keynote w/ Brunch
  • “Sunday Service”
  • Access to Wellness Marketplace
  • Swag Bag
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General Tickets

$425

  • Welcome Happy Hour (Drinks, DJ & Fun Included)
  • Founder Opening Remarks
  • Access to ALL Info Sessions
  • Access to ALL Wellness Sessions
  • Panel Discussions from World-Class Speakers
  • Closing Keynote w/ Brunch
  • “Sunday Service”
  • Access to Wellness Marketplace
  • Swag Bag
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VIP Tickets

$600

  • Everything Included From General Tickets
  • Skip The Line Access
  • Premium VIP Seating
  • VIP Only Breakfast including Meet and Greet + Photo Ops
  • ‘Ask Me Anything Session’ with Victoria Reese
  • Founder
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Vendor Application

I’m Your Host

Victoria Reese, Founder & CEO of We Are ILL

  • client-image

    Victoria Reese

    @picturethisvic

Confirmed Guests

  • Dr. Mitzi Williams, MD

    Dr. Mitzi Williams, MD

    @thenerdyneurologist

  • Dr. Annette Okai

    Dr. Annette Okai

  • Ashley Ratcliff Lundy

    Ashley Ratcliff Lundy

    @ashleyadores

  • Jennifer Holliday

    Jennifer Holliday

    @Jenniferhollidaydreamgirl

  • Connie O'Neal-Bates

    Connie O'Neal-Bates

  • Neisha Comegna

    Neisha Comegna

  • Dr. Jacqueline Rosenthal

    Dr. Jacqueline Rosenthal

  • Carmen Aziz

    Carmen Aziz

    @carmen.nicole.aziz

  • Blair Burleson

    Blair Burleson

  • Charmaine Turner

    Charmaine Turner

    @exaltingwellness

  • Nwandi Williams

    Nwandi Williams

    @_releasetopeace

  • Goody Howard

    Goody Howard

    @askgoody

  • Dr Mary Hughes

    Dr. Mary Hughes

  • Amber Cunningham

    Amber Cunningham

    @ambersmsjourney

  • Danielle Virgil

    Danielle Virgil

    @divinefavorllc

  • Dr. Evelyn Hunter

    Dr. Evelyn Hunter

Gear up for Wellness Week(end) with exclusive merch that radiates positivity and style!

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Professional Patient Hat
$35.00
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Take Up Space Sweatsuit
$130.00
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Hoodie
$65.00
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Joggers
$65.00
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Dear Black Girl Crewneck
$55.00
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Fierce, Fine & Fighting Tee
$40.00
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Support Squad Tee
$40.00
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Croc Charm Set
$15.00

Order online with your tickets to snag these limited editions, as they won't be sold in person. Merch sales end on September 30.

Buy Merch

NOTE: ALL SALES FINAL. NO RETURNS OR REFUNDS.

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Wellness Week(end) 2024: Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What is Wellness Week(end)?

Presented by We Are ILL, Wellness Week(end) is the ONLY event where Black women living with MS are invited to have a seat at the table! It’s a rejuvenating retreat for Black women with MS and their circle to connect, recharge and thrive together. Through meaningful conversations and a variety of educational experiences, attendees will leave Wellness Week(end) with insight into how they can balance their health and wellness, resources that foster positive habits and behavior, and connections to fellow Black women living with MS.

How many days is the event?

The event includes three days of programming, beginning on Friday, November 1, 2024, and concluding on Sunday, November 3, 2024.

What is the location of Wellness Week(end)?

Wellness Week(end) will take place at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown, 866 W Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308. The event space is located in Fulton County in the heart of the Atlanta metropolitan area.

What will the event entail?

Wellness Week(end) includes happy hours, a keynote speaker, informational and wellness sessions, a Sunday service with brunch, musical performances, access to our Wellness Marketplace and gift shop, the opportunity to explore Atlanta, and more!

What is the theme of Wellness Week(end)?

This year’s Wellness Week(end) theme is “Take Up Space.” This theme is all about us stepping into our power, owning our presence, and filling every room with our authentic selves. It’s a call to not just exist but to boldly and unapologetically be present in every aspect of our lives, especially when it comes to our wellness and healthcare.

Is Wellness Week(end) indoors or outdoors?

The event will take place in meeting rooms within the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown. There will be opportunities for attendees to explore Atlanta outdoors.

Will COVID-19 protocols be followed during Wellness Week(end)? Are masks required?

The health and safety of our participants, staff, and community are our top priority. We are closely monitoring and following all COVID-19 protocols as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the state of Georgia’s guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in our Wellness Week(end).

While masks are not mandatory, we strongly encourage anyone who feels more comfortable doing so to wear one. We believe in personal responsibility and respect for others’ choices regarding health precautions. Our aim is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all attendees can focus on their wellness journey while feeling safe and protected.

Please rest assured that we will keep all attendees updated with any changes to these guidelines as the event approaches, ensuring we adhere to the most current health advisories and regulations. Your well-being is our utmost concern, and we are committed to providing a safe space for everyone to relax, rejuvenate, and connect.

Is Wellness Week(end) an accessible event?

Yes, the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown offers several accessible features, from elevators to accessible entrances and meeting rooms. Accessible guest rooms are also available upon request.

Will We Are ILL be selling Wellness Week(end) merch?

Absolutely, we have a variety of exclusive products — including a sweatsuit, sweatshirt, T-shirts, and hats — available for pre-order only. Wellness Week(end) merch will not be sold in person. You may pre-order your merch during checkout for your Wellness Week(end) ticket, or online at wearewellnessweekend.com by September 30, 2024.

How do I ask my job to cover the cost of my attendance at Wellness Week(end)?

Your company may possibly be able to sponsor your Wellness Week(end) ticket. Use this letter template. [See verbiage below]

Dear [Approving Manager],

I am reaching out to formally request your support for my attendance at the upcoming We Are ILL’s Wellness Week(end), scheduled for November 1-3, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. This distinguished event, organized by the leading multiple sclerosis patient advocacy group, We Are ILL, promises to be an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional growth, particularly in managing well-being amidst the challenges of living with MS.

The conference is set to feature an array of esteemed speakers and experts on the Black MS community, offering insights through a series of workshops, panels, and keynote addresses. The content of Wellness Week(end) is closely aligned with our organization's commitment to promoting mental health and self-care among our team members. For instance, [mention a specific session] directly correlates with our objective of [link to a company goal].

The general admission registration fee of $175 grants full access to the event’s comprehensive agenda, including all educational sessions and networking opportunities. This investment not only signifies a commitment to my personal health and well-being but also positions me to contribute more effectively to our workplace. I am confident that the experience will rejuvenate my enthusiasm and creativity, ultimately benefiting our team and projects.

Upon my return, I am prepared to compile and present a detailed report outlining key insights and actionable recommendations that could further enhance our team’s well-being and productivity, aligning with [insert your company name]’s dedication to its employees’ health. This initiative represents a strategic investment in our collective future, promising substantial returns in terms of innovation and team morale.

I am at your disposal for any queries or further discussion regarding this proposal. I eagerly await your feedback and hope for your favorable consideration.

Warm regards,

[Insert Your Name]

Ticket Information

How much does it cost to attend Wellness Week(end)?

Ticket prices are as follows: General Admission $175 and VIP $350. Attendees also have the option of booking a room at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown under We Are ILL’s room block.

What do the different ticket levels include?

General Admission Includes:

Access to ALL Info and Wellness Sessions, Founder Opening Remarks, Panel Discussions from World-Class Speakers, Happy Hours, Closing Keynote with Brunch, Access to Wellness Marketplace, Gift Bag

VIP Includes:

*Everything Included From General Admission Tickets

Plus:

Skip The Line Access, Premium VIP Seating, a Massage, Exclusive VIP Dinner, a Deluxe Swag Bag

Are there payment plans available for Wellness Week(end) tickets and merch?

Indeed, we provide the convenience of installment payment options through Klarna or Affirm for those interested in purchasing tickets and merchandise for Wellness Week(end). This buy now, pay later arrangement allows for a more flexible payment schedule to accommodate our guests’ financial planning needs.

Travel Information

How can I book a hotel?

We Are ILL has reserved a block of rooms at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown. To book your accommodations, visit HERE.

Are accessible rooms available at the hotel?

Yes, accessible rooms are available upon request at the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown. To book your accommodations, visit HERE HERE.

Which airport should I fly into?

The closest airport is the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), located at 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320.

How far is the hotel from the airport?

It is an estimated 12 miles (33.53 km) from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown, with a 28-minute travel time.

Participant Information

How can my brand or business be a Wellness Week(end) sponsor?

We are currently accepting sponsors at a variety of sponsorship levels. Please email We Are ILL at info@weareillms.com.

How can I sell my merchandise at Wellness Week(end)?

We are currently accepting vendors in our Wellness Marketplace. To register, please purchase your table upon completing the event registration form.

Do you need volunteers?

Yes, we will need volunteers to support us during the event. If you're interested in volunteering, Please email
at membership@weareillms.com for more information.

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