Dear Bits & Pretzels Community,
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As we approach Bits & Pretzels HealthTech 2023, we want to take a moment to share with you some important news that is close to our hearts. We are introducing a new award that truly embodies the spirit of our community and the values that drive us.

We call it the Frontier Award.

This award has been created to acknowledge and honor those who dare to venture into the unknown, face adversity with courage, and persist with optimism even when the odds seem insurmountable. They are the boundary-pushers, the change-makers, the ones who, despite everything, refuse to give up.
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The Frontier Award is our tribute to the individuals who inspire us, those who are reshaping our world and proving that even in the face of fierce challenges, optimism and action can, and do make a difference.

As we unveil this new honor, we couldn’t think of a more deserving first recipient than Michael J. Fox. His incredible journey, marked by resilience, courage, and an indomitable spirit, has inspired millions around the world. Mr. Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 29 in the midst of his illustrious acting career.

Yet he decided not to feel sorry for himself but instead dedicated his life to Parkinson’s disease research through The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

His foundation has emerged as the world's largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson's research. His advocacy and relentless efforts have not only raised over $1.75 billion for Parkinson's research but have also propelled the search for a cure and positioned his foundation as a leading voice in scientific philanthropy.
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Healthtech is a challenging yet crucial sector. It requires innovation, creativity, and an immense amount of perseverance. We believe that Michael’s story will inspire many people, especially the founders in our community, to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges we face.
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We hope that the Frontier Award will serve as a beacon, encouraging us to continue to aim high, remain undeterred, and stay optimistic because it is through this relentless pursuit of our goals, this refusal to be defeated, and this unwavering belief in a better future that we can truly make a difference.
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Michael J. Fox will accept the award in-person on the Plenary Stage of Bits & Pretzels HealthTech in Munich on June 20.

The ceremony will be followed by a moderated conversation. Let’s celebrate this moment together. We are eager to honor Michael and share his inspiring story with all of you.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your passion, your energy, and your dedication are what make our community so unique. Together, we can build a future of optimism, courage, and groundbreaking achievements.
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Looking forward to seeing you in Munich,
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Christian Lohmeier, CEO of Bits & Pretzels

Also in the name of the Bits & Pretzels Hosts & Team, our HealthTech Curators, and our Founding Partners.