Spinal-Cord Superheroes

Spinal cord injury is probably one thing that everyone fears. Most of us can’t even imagine how we would cope if we were told we were paralysed because of an accident. But every day this happens to three people in the UK.

For them, paralysis becomes the reality of their daily lives. It’s not just about being unable to breathe or move the affected limbs, either – many suffer from other problems such as bowel complications. And yet they go on to do amazing things despite their disabilities.

Luckily for spinal injury patients now and in the future, there are neuroscientists around the world working to understand and treat this debilitating condition. Researchers are trying to find ways to stop spinal cord injuries increasing in size, as they usually do after an accident. Other studies have shown that cells from the nose could one day be used to repair spinal injuries. These olfactory sheathing cells that surround the nerves that allow us to smell have been used to help heal spinal injuries in rats.

Join us to find out what can be achieved both personally by those with spinal injuries and through medical research. You’ll hear about what it’s like to live with a spinal injury, and how it feels to go on to win medals in the Paralympics or sail across the Atlantic. You’ll also hear from the scientists who are at the forefront of research into how to treat this condition, and get the chance to ask your own questions.

Event organised by European Dana Alliance for the Brain and NeuroNE

Speakers

John Cavanagh, Paralympic gold medal winner
James Fawcett, Cambridge Centre for brain Repair
Anne Luttman-Johnson, Trans Atlantic sailor
Geoff Raisman, University College London

Chairman:
Sophie Petit-Zeman, author of 'Doctor, What's Wrong'