NFL’s Boomer Esiason Will Be Keynote Speaker at NASP Annual Meeting

Former National Football League quarterback Boomer Esiason, whose son has cystic fibrosis (CF), will be a keynote speaker at the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy’s (NASP) Annual Meeting & Expo.

One of the most high-profile figures in the fight against CF, Esiason will speak on the opening day of the Sept. 9-12 event at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, D.C.

“We are thrilled to welcome Boomer Esiason as a keynote speaker,” Sheila Arquette, NASP executive director, said in a news release. “His accomplishments on the football field are remarkable. His accomplishments off the field are even more extraordinary.”

While he has long worked for numerous charitable causes, Esiason became involved with CF when his son, Gunnar, was diagnosed with the disease in 1993. The next year, he established the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which to date has raised more than $90 million for research, awareness, and patient support programs.

Through his foundation, Esiason has helped advance scientific investigations into therapies and a cure for CF.

“Esiason has helped to increase awareness and education about cystic fibrosis. Through his foundation, he has fostered further research for life-saving treatments and hope for a cure. Conference attendees will learn a great deal from Esiason’s life experiences and phenomenal success,” Arquette said.

In his 14-year career, Esiason played for the Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Jets/ He made four Pro Bowl appearances and was the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 1988. The former “Monday Night Football” commentator hosts the radio show “Boomer and Gio” and co-hosts Showtime’s “Inside the NFL.”

Representing the specialty pharmacy industry, NASP advocates for public policy and offers continuing professional education courses and a certification program. The annual meeting draws more than 1,200 specialty pharmacy professionals, as well as providers, pharma/biotech manufacturers, managed care organizations, data management and group purchasing organizations, distributors and industry suppliers.

In addition to scientific posters and abstracts, the seventh annual NASP event will feature workshops, panel discussions, and educational programs, plus industry awards. Legal and pharmacist education credits will be available, as will certification exam preparation courses. The meeting will also spotlight the latest in specialty pharmacy, including national legislative and regulatory policy.

Esiason will sign 10 footballs to be raffled at the evening reception. The money raised will be donated to charity.

Please go here for additional information about the event and to register. Event rates can be viewed here.