Scotland’s Motor Neurone Disease charity, MND Scotland, today hosted a free, interactive, and educational local research event at Celtic Park. The Lived Experience and Researcher Network (LEARN), organised by MND Scotland and supported by Celtic FC, brought together people affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and local MND researchers. Today was an opportunity for attendees to hear presentations from MND researchers, take part in open discussions with MND researchers and people affected by MND, participate in sessions facilitated to build relationships between attendees and researchers, and have opportunities to learn about current MND research. MND is a rapidly progressing terminal neurological illness, which stops signals from the brain reaching the muscles. This causes muscle weakness and wasting. MND can rob someone of the ability to walk, talk, swallow and breathe. The average life expectancy of someone with MND is just 18 months from diagnosis. There is no cure or meaningful treatment. The LEARN event explored some of the latest developments in MND research for those affected by the disease and provided an opportunity to build relationships between those with lived experience and researchers to make sure that research reflects the needs of people with or affected by MND. Dr Jane Haley MBE, Director of Research for MND Scotland, said: “We believe that people affected by MND should be at the heart of what we do. Our LEARN events provide an opportunity for both a meaningful dialogue with the researchers we fund and a mutual exchange of experiences. “Celtic Football Club has direct experience of MND, and we are pleased that we are working together to deliver our Glasgow LEARN event for 2025.” Former Celtic player and the club’s Professional Player Pathway Manager, Shaun Maloney, who today met representatives of MND Scotland and those affected by MND said. “I was delighted to meet so many great people at today’s event,” he said. “When I played at Celtic, I remember meeting the great Jimmy Johnstone many times as he fought this very cruel illness, and as with Jinky, the bravery shown by people today fighting this illness is quite inspirational. “I know that everyone at the club is passionate about helping those affected by MND and I hope today’s event is really influential in raising further awareness and offering support to all those in Scotland affected by this terrible disease.” Across all LEARN events, there will be opportunities for people with MND, carers, family and supporters to meet and engage with local MND researchers, to learn more about their work. For more information, visit mndscotland.org.uk
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