Scotland’s leading motor neuron disease charity to host second research event in Edinburgh

MND Scotland is hosting a free, interactive, and educational local research event in Edinburgh at Tynecastle Park on Tuesday 7 October 2025, from 2pm to 5pm, thanks to support from Heart of Midlothian F.C.

The Lived Experience and Researcher Network (LEARN), organised by MND Scotland and supported by Hearts FC, brings together people affected by motor neuron disease (MND) and local MND researchers.

It is 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 will explore some of the latest developments in MND research for those affected by the disease and provide 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.

Following the diagnosis of Scottish Cup winning Hearts FC captain, Marius Žaliūkas, MND Scotland and Hearts have built a strong partnership. This led to MND Scotland being Heart’s front of shirt sponsor for the clubs 2021/22 and 2023/24 seasons.

Since the partnership began in 2021, Hearts FC and its supporters have raised more than £150,000 for MND Scotland.

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.

At the Edinburgh event, attendees will hear from presenting researchers Dr Lyndsay Murray, Dr Helena Chaytow, and Abby O’Sullivan.

There are around 480 people in Scotland currently living with MND.

MND Scotland invites those interested in this research learning event to hear more about their contribution in the fight against MND.

LEARN Edinburgh will take place on Tuesday 7 October 2025, 2pm-5pm, at Tynecastle Park. Event details (including information about parking, accessibility, and how to register) can be found here.

The online registration link can also be accessed here.

For more information about MND Scotland, please visit: www.mndscotland.org.uk, email: info@mndscotland.org.uk, or call: 0141 332 3903.