It's too bad that the Patient & Family Conference is in the wrong area for you this year. They move it around the country from year to year, so it's likely to be nearer the east coast next year.
Another suggestion: Contact the AA&MDSIF
Global Support Network and ask if there is someone near to your age in the program. The program was set up to let patients network with other patients, and they might be able to connect you to someone. If you become one of their volunteers, they would refer other patients to you as well.
For contact information, see the "To talk to a volunteer" section on that page.