Burn Survivors of New England is committed to supporting, empowering, and building active and engaged lives of burn survivors and their families.
August 14–15, 2026 | Waltham, MA
The Healing Summit 2026 is a two-day gathering designed to support life beyond survival — a space where burn survivors, loved ones, first responders, and burn care professionals come together to explore what it truly means to heal, grow, and thrive after injury.
Hosted by Burn Survivors of New England, the Healing Summit focuses on the long-term journey of recovery — not only physical healing, but emotional well-being, personal growth, and meaningful connection. This summit is rooted in resilience, shared experience, and the belief that life after a burn can be full, empowered, and connected.
Healing does not end when medical treatment does. The Healing Summit was created to address the ongoing realities burn survivors and their families navigate long after discharge, including:
Rebuilding confidence and identity
Caring for skin and the body over time
Supporting emotional wellness and healthy coping
Connecting with others who truly understand the burn survivor experience
This summit centers growth, empowerment, and community, offering tools, conversations, and relationships that support long-term quality of life.
Check-In: 5:30–7:00 PM
Welcome Gathering: 7:30–9:00 PM
Begin the weekend with a relaxed Welcome Gathering designed to foster connection and ease into the summit experience. Enjoy light food stations, music, and opening remarks from BSONE President Gina Russo. This gathering offers an opportunity to meet fellow attendees, speakers, and community partners in a supportive, informal setting.
A cash bar will be available, and an ATM is located onsite for your convenience.
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Saturday features a full day of programming centered on living well after a burn, including:
Keynote Address by Scott Allen — burn survivor, physician, author of Across the Bridge of Fire, and nationally recognized human rights advocate
Panels and breakout sessions on:
Peer support and community connection
Scar therapy, skin care, and long-term wellness
Nutrition and substance use awareness
Emotional resilience and self-care through the arts
Survivor reflections highlighting strength, adaptability, and growth
Opportunities to connect with vendors and community partners offering survivor-centered resources
Continental breakfast and buffet lunch are included with registration. Dinner is NOT included.
Saturday Evening | 8:00–8:30 PM
While the Healing Summit is rooted in forward movement and thriving, we also recognize the importance of remembrance.
Join us for an optional candlelight ceremony honoring the 100 lives lost in the Station Nightclub Fire and acknowledging the strength and resilience of burn survivors everywhere.
This ceremony is free and open to all Healing Summit attendees.
Burn survivors at any stage of their recovery journey
Family members and loved ones supporting a survivor
First responders and burn care professionals
Advocates, caregivers, and community members committed to long-term healing and survivor well-being
The Healing Summit creates a rare space where survivors and care teams come together not around crisis — but around possibility.
Through shared experiences, practical education, and meaningful connection, attendees leave with renewed confidence, expanded support networks, and tools to support a full and thriving life beyond injury.
A discounted hotel room block is available for Healing Summit attendees.
Room Block Deadline: July 13, 2026
Rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Parking:
Free self-parking is available in the hotel parking garage for all summit attendees.
Tickets for the Healing Summit 2026 are available through our secure registration platform.
[Register for the Healing Summit]
By supporting the Healing Summit, you are investing in programs that uplift burn survivors and promote long-term healing, education, and connection.
For sponsorship information, please contact:
Welcome to Waltham! Below is a curated list of nearby restaurants and casual dining options for attendees of the Healing Summit 2026. This guide is designed to be easy to browse as you plan your stay.
Copper House Tavern
Good American food, burgers, and drinks. Very close to the Westin Waltham.
Relish Burger Bistro
Located inside the Westin Waltham, offering solid American bistro-style fare.
The Local
Classic American bar and grill with a gluten-free menu available.
Jake n JOES Sports Grille
A popular choice for sports bar favorites and casual dining.
Not Your Average Joe’s
Known for customizable American dishes and a broad menu.
Bertucci’s Italian Restaurant
Classic brick-oven pizza, pasta, and Italian comfort food.
The Chateau – Waltham
A well-known New England Italian restaurant offering classic Italian-American dishes in a comfortable setting.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Upscale steakhouse offering a premium dining experience.
The Federal
A popular Waltham spot with steakhouse-inspired options and an elevated menu.
Umi Fine Japanese and Asian Cuisine
Sushi and a variety of Japanese and Asian dishes.
The Painted Burro
Mexican cuisine located near the Westin Waltham.
Craft Food Halls – Waltham
A variety of food stalls offering multiple cuisines in one location.
In A Pickle Restaurant
A well-regarded spot for casual dining and comfort-style meals.
Restaurant availability, hours, and menus may change. We recommend checking individual restaurant websites or calling ahead during your stay.