Beyond Limits: A Weekend Designed For You

Wellness Week(end) is the only national experience created exclusively for Black women living with MS, lupus, and NMOSD — and the people who love and support them.

October 30 – November 1, 2026 | Atlanta, GA

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6 Years Strong   |   300+ Women Served Annually

National Sponsors   |   Research-Backed Conversations

Welcome home, sis.

Wellness Week(end) is We Are ILL’s signature annual event — a one-of-a-kind gathering, now in its sixth year, created exclusively for Black women living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Since our first one, this weekend has grown into a sacred space where our community comes together to rest, reconnect, recharge, and remember that we are more than our diagnosis.

For so many of us, this weekend feels like a homecoming — a joyful reunion of women who understand the highs and lows of navigating life with a chronic illness. Every year, we create a powerful experience that blends education, sisterhood, and self-care in a space curated just for us — where you don’t have to explain, shrink, or perform. Just show up as you are.

Wellness Weekend Balloons

This year’s theme is “In Pursuit of Joy,” because for us, joy isn’t optional — it’s essential. It’s what carries us through, what softens the hard days, and what reminds us we’re still here — and stILL that girl. We hope you’ll join us in Atlanta along with your support squads for a soul-filling weekend that centers your well-being, your growth, and your happiness.

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This year’s Wellness Week(end) theme is “Beyond Limits,” because for us, true wellness means daring to go further—past fear, past doubt, and past what we thought was possible. It’s an invitation to expand your faith, your mindset, and your capacity for joy. We hope you’ll join us in Atlanta along with your support squads for a soul-filling weekend that centers your well-being, your growth, and your happiness.

Our visual concept for Wellness Week(end) 2026 builds on the theme “Beyond Limits” by drawing inspiration from textures and symbols that reflect resilience, connection, and continuous growth.

wellness & beyond logo

When going Beyond Limits, our visual concept reflects both infinite strength and interwoven lives. Inspired by the flowing loops of the infinity symbol and the rich textures of coiled and braided hair, the design represents the resilience, adaptability, and limitless potential within you as you navigate life with chronic illness. The interlacing patterns also symbolize how our journeys are deeply connected, reminding us that strength is not only found within, but also in the community that surrounds and supports us.

As we expand to center women living with MS, lupus, and NMOSD, the imagery of three braided strands reflects the powerful bond between our communities and the shared care that helps us move forward together.

Tell Us Exactly Who This Experience Is For

Wellness Week(end) was created for Black women navigating MS, lupus, and NMOSD who are ready to feel seen, supported, and strengthened.

This space is for you if:

  • You are living with MS, lupus, or NMOSD and want deeper understanding of your body
  • You are a caregiver, spouse, or family member seeking clarity and tools to better support your loved one
  • You are craving community that understands the highs and lows of chronic illness
  • You want access to researchers, healthcare providers, and sponsors who are investing in your future
  • You are ready to move beyond survival and step into possibility
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Wellness Experience

Premier Sponsor

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The Countdown Begins

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The Outcome: What Changes After This Weekend

You will leave with more than notes and photos. You will leave with clarity, connection, and confidence.

After Wellness Week(end), you will:

Understand treatment options, research updates, and advocacy opportunities
Build meaningful relationships with women who truly get it
Gain tools for navigating work, family, intimacy, fertility, and financial realities
Feel empowered to advocate for yourself in medical settings
Experience joy that feels intentional, not accidental

Because healing happens in community. And growth? It accelerates when we rise together.

Join Us in Atlanta

A Weekend Designed for the Whole Woman

Friday: Mind

Evidence-based education, real talk conversations, cross-condition panels, research insights, and powerful storytelling.

Saturday: Body

Adaptive fitness, support groups, fertility and intimacy sessions, caregiver programming, and sponsor activations focused on innovation and care.

Sunday: Soul

“Patient In You Podcast” experience, musical inspiration, awards, reflection, and collective empowerment to step Beyond Limits.

Why We Gather

Wellness Week(end) is more than a conference. It is a sacred space where Black women living with MS, lupus, and NMOSD are centered — not sidelined.

Hosted by We Are ILL, a 501(c)(3) patient advocacy organization, this weekend is designed to:

  • Increase education and research awareness
  • Strengthen advocacy across MS, lupus, and NMOSD
  • Provide practical tools for daily life
  • Create lasting sisterhood

We are not here to shrink. We are here to rise.

Wellness Community

Event Details

DATE:

Friday, November 7 – Sunday, November 9, 2025

LOCATION::

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

Lodging Info:

  • 3-night stay recommended: Check in Thursday, November 6 | Check out Sunday, November 9
  • Discounted hotel rate: $209 per night (a slight savings from last year) ADA rooms available. You can select accessible room options after choosing a room during booking.
  • Hotel booking deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025
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Why We Gather

Wellness Week(end) is a celebration of sisterhood. A living, breathing example of what’s possible when Black women with chronic illnesses are centered, not sidelined.

This transformative experience is brought to you by We Are ILL, a 501(c)(3) patient advocacy organization committed to redefining what “sick” looks like for Black women living with multiple sclerosis.

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Ready to Say Yes to Joy?

It won’t be the same without you. Get your ticket, gather your squad, and come experience the event we’ve been waiting for all year.

Wellness Week(end) 2025 is calling. Will you answer?

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Agenda

Friday, November 7
  • Welcome/Host - Aisha Howard
  • Opening Remarks – Ashley Blaine Featherson-Jenkins

    A joyful welcome that sets the tone for the weekend and celebrates the power of community, sisterhood, and purpose.

  • Keynote Address – Joy D. Calloway

    A powerful keynote that honors the lived experiences of Black women with MS, Lupus and NMOSD while exploring how joy itself can be a radical act of healing, resistance, and wellness in the face of chronic illness.

SESSIONS
Session 1

“Where Are We At with MS?” A Real Talk on the Future of Care Powered by Novartis

Let’s talk about it. In this refreshingly honest conversation, a new generation of Black women neurologists shares their insider perspective on where things stand with multiple sclerosis (MS) care today. From groundbreaking developments to persistent disparities, they’ll break down what’s changing, what’s not, and what it means for Black patients navigating their diagnosis. This session isn’t just about the data — it’s about the real-life impact, the systemic gaps, and the hope on the horizon.

Speakers: Dr. Huiam Mubarak, Dr. Jakai Nolan McEwen, Dr. Mima Akinsanya

Session 2

“Thriving with Rare & Chronic Illnesses” Powered by EMD Serono

In this opening session, we welcome Black women living with chronic illnesses like MS, Lupus, and NMOSD into our community with an honest conversation about quality of life, treatment goals, caregiver support, and shared decision-making. Together, we’ll explore what it means to navigate these experiences with agency, support, and strength.

Speakers: Naomi Rose, Marion Jones, Ashley Ratcliff Lundy

Session 3

“The Financial Reality of Being Chronically ILL”

An empowering discussion on financial planning with a chronic illness, focusing on budgeting for medical bills and making informed decisions about estate planning, wills, and long-term care, all while managing your health.

Speakers: Dr. Nicole Garner Scott

Session 4

“The Change: Black Women, Menopause & the Power of Knowing Your Body” Powered by Genentech

This honest, affirming session explores menopause through the lens of Black womanhood — addressing symptoms, stigma, chronic illness overlap, and the freedom that comes with understanding your evolving body.

Speakers: Dr. Mia Cowan, Dr. Okai, Yvonne Smith

Session 5

“Loving Someone Through It” Powered by EMD Serono

A heartfelt dialogue for caregivers, partners, family, and friends of those living with chronic illnesses like MS, Lupus, and NMOSD. This session centers on support, resilience, and the realities of caregiving — offering space for shared stories, practical guidance, and the emotional journey of loving someone through their health challenges.

Speakers: Lyndsey Odd-Williams, Lynnette Odd, Denise Bronner

Saturday, November 8
SESSIONS
Session 1

Adaptive Fitness Powered by ANI Pharmaceuticals

Join us for an empowering adaptive fitness experience led by Rebeckah Price, MS Warrior and Nike Global Trainer. Through her Rise Strong methodology, this session blends energizing movements with adaptive options — allowing participants to move seated, standing, or a combination of both. Designed with the unique needs of women navigating MS, Lupus and NMOSD in mind, this class ensures everyone feels included, challenged, and supported. A select number of guests will also receive exclusive fitness kits.

Instructor: Rebeckah Price

Session 2

“Unleash Your Impact” Powered by Abbvie

This dynamic, hands-on workshop led by a seasoned patient advocate helps participants shape, deliver, and refine their personal stories for impact, influence, and real-world advocacy opportunities.

Speaker: Victoria Reese Brathwaite

Session 3

“The Future is Now: AI vs Black Women’s Health” Powered by Novartis

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming healthcare — but what does that mean for Black women? In this thought-provoking session, a subject matter expert unpacks the promises and perils of AI, from diagnostic advancements to algorithmic bias. Together, we’ll explore how emerging technologies can either bridge or widen health disparities — and what we must do to ensure equity in the age of AI.

Speaker: Mia Keeys

Session 4

Support Groups Powered by Biogen

An empowering and open discussion space for individuals affected by chronic illnesses like MS, Lupus, and NMOSD to connect, reflect, and find strength through shared stories and support.

There will be 2 different types of support groups available: (1) for care partners and loved ones and (2) for persons living with chronic illnesses.

Leads: Nwandi Williams, Charmaine Turner, Tiana Sherrod

Session 5

“Shop Chats: Barbershop Edition” Powered by Sanofi

Reimagining the barbershop as a space for health and healing, this conversation brings together Black MEN — including MS patients, caregivers, and specialists — to discuss the realities of living with MS, navigating care, and strengthening the patient-provider relationship.

Leads: Dallas Burleson, Dr. Oluwasheyi Ayeni, Ricky Allen

Session 6

“Intimacy While ILL” Powered by Biogen

Exploring the complexities of dating, intimacy, and marriage while navigating the challenges of chronic illnesses like MS, Lupus and NMOSD, fostering open dialogue and support within relationships

We will explore topics like sex and intimacy with chronic illness, including culturally sensitive interventions and neuropsychological considerations.

Speaker: Goody Howard

Sunday, November 9
SESSIONS
Session 1

Musical Performance

We’re closing out Wellness Week(end) the only way we know how — with heart, harmony, and healing. In this soul-stirring finale, a special guest will take the stage for a live performance.

Speakers: The CommUnity ATL

Session 2

Patient In You Podcast Session

A special guest will join We Are ILL Founder and President Victoria Reese Brathwaite for an intimate fireside chat.

Session 3

Awards + Closing Remarks

Speakers: Victoria Reese Brathwaite

Past Wellness Week(end) Highlights

Testimonials
Tiana S Tiana S.

"Heart is so full after day 2! Happy to have held space for the support group!"

Kandice W Kandice W.

"You had to be there to understand. So thankful!"

Shaifer T Shaifer T.

"When I'm in my golden years reflecting on my past, this will for sure be one of the best memories of my lifetime. I did not know what to expect with it being my first time attending, but everything was done with EXCELLENCE! I left informed and inspired. Great job! Can't wait until next year!"

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