After attending the 20th ALS/MND symposium I have come away happy in the knowledge that the volume of research into finding the causes and developing treatments for MND/ALS has really taken up momentum over the past few years.

The annual MND Symposiums provides an arena whereby experts in the field of research can discuss their research to a global audience and this year the message was clear for all ‘let’s work together while we strive to get the ultimate cure for MND’. There is a massive volume of research being conducted globally both at a scientific and clinical level which leads to the need for collaboration in order to achieve our common goal.

It was heartening to learn about the different level of research with quality of life remaining central to all. The fact remains that while there is a vast amount of research taking place, there is still no cure but there appears to be an additional focus while we journey on.

Rest assured, research will remain on going into finding the causes of MND. Within the past twelve months alone 2 more genes were discovered and they are believed to be significant in the pathogenesis of MND. However, more work needs be done and while we try to break down the complexity of the disease, scientists are also working on developing treatments for the disease.

While it is commonly known that MND is most probably the result of several factors it is now highlighted that the treatment of the disease will most likely involve a cocktail of drugs. The aim is to combat the symptoms of the disease by slowing down the progression to enable people to live with the disease while causes continue to be explored.

Collaboration between scientists, clinicians and the general MND population is necessary. If we pool all knowledge and resources then maybe a breakthrough can be obtained. There were experts from all over the globe in attendance so we can say with certainly that around the clock research into MND is taking place and the Irish MND research group is happy to be involved in all cutting edge research.

As people affected by MND, and indeed the general public - you too can collaborate with us. MND is not as rare as one would think; indeed its incidence is just marginally lower then some of the more common neurological diseases. When MND visits a family and indeed community we frequently hear the phenomenon of ‘someone who knew someone who was affected by the disease’. If this phenomenon resonates with you then we urge you to support our cause.

We need to continue increasing awareness of MND so that the necessary infrastructure can be invested into finding a cure and treatment for MND. Grants need to be allocated towards MND research and you can aid this by keeping MND topical at a local and indeed national level. Funds are necessary to support ongoing research so we ask you to support us on our journey to the ultimate cure.

Kind regards

Catherine Lynch CEO-IMNDRF