Eighteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma

The Eighteenth International Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma was held on October 23, 24, 25, 2022 at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. It was extremely well-attended, with more than 400 people participating in over 60 sessions focusing on family/victim support, investigative techniques, legal and trial experiences, prevention programs from around the world, the latest research from experts in the field, and shared experiences from parents and survivors.

We were honored to have the conference kick off with a presentation by Dr. Hank Puls, “The Rates of AHT During COVID-19.”

Some of the other highlights of the 3-day event included:

• Dr. Mary Case being presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. The award was presented by Dr. Lucy Roarke-Adams. Dr. Case has spent her career as a forensic pathologist speaking for child victims of abuse and as an expert witness for shaken baby syndrome/abusive head trauma.
• Our “Ask The Experts” panel was facilitated by Dr. Randall Alexander, Dr. Lori Frasier, Tom Fallon (JD), and Joelle Moreno (JD). The discussion was vibrant and informative.
• The premier of “A Survivor’s Story” featuring Josh Sorrels, filmed by Christopher Baier, relating the story of adult Josh discovering he is a victim of shaken baby syndrome.
• A powerful and moving presentation by Sameer Sabir, “Justice for Rehma,” as he discussed the loss of his daughter to this devastating form of abuse and the judicial process that victimized the family further.

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome is indebted to the willing experts who presented at the conference, shared years of experience, research, and knowledge, and to the brave families and victims who shared their heartbreaking stories.