Sometimes emotional, sometimes humorous, always honest – MND Matters gives people affected by MND the chance to share their stories.
The podcast, brought to you by the MND Association, tackles a host of subjects with the aim of sharing experiences, offering informal advice and support, and raising awareness.
Listen to episodes of MND Matters using the links below, or search MND Matters in your chosen podcast provider.
Meet your hosts
Chris
Hello I'm Chris and I am Director of External Affairs for the MND Association. I'm really excited to be part of the MND Matters podcast. In my spare time I'm a keen runner and have completed a few marathons and half-marathons for the Association. I also do a bit of acting and for the 2.6 challenge last year I attempted to recreate 26 iconic film scenes in 26 days – the quality was variable.
Helen
Hi, I'm Helen, I am a regional fundraiser for the MND Association and I have the privilege of helping all the amazing people fighting and fundraising against MND in the South West while also working alongside the incredible MND local branches and groups across the region.
I joined the Association in January 2021 and couldn't be prouder to be helping make a difference in my own little way. My grandad sadly died of MND so I'm incredibly passionate to raise as much awareness as possible which is why I'm so excited to join the podcast team.
I live just outside Bristol and when I'm not working or helping raise money for MND you might find me volunteering with my local search and rescue team.
Nick
Hi, I'm Dr Nick Cole and I'm the Head of Research at the Association. My passion for MND research started in 2010 when I was living in Australia where I applied some of my research involving zebrafish to MND. From that moment, I was hooked on trying to understand more about this complex disease and help the people affected. I was so excited to see the Head of Research job open up at the Association and I haven't looked back.
Presenting MND Matters is a huge honour, I feel privileged to hear first hand the stories and experiences of people affected by MND. Fun fact: In 2015 I broke the Guinness World Record for the Longest Kitesurf Journey while raising money for MND research.
Steph
Hi, I'm Steph, and I've worked at the Association for over seven years, previously in the fundraising team and currently as National Care Manager. I currently oversee our grants programme, which offers financial support to people living with and affected by MND.
Before I joined the Association I couldn't even jog around the block but I completed my first #TeamMND marathon in 2018 and haven't stopped running since, although since becoming a mum I am more of a 5k buggy runner!
Latest episode
Episode 32: Caring for someone with MND – Martyn’s experiences.
“One of the things we’ve said is - as long as we laugh more times than we cry, we're winning.”
Carers of people with motor neurone disease (MND) often face significant emotional and financial challenges. In this episode, released during Carers Week 2024, Martyn shares his personal experience as an unpaid carer for his wife Anna, who was diagnosed with MND in May 2023.
As part of our MND Guarantee campaign, we are calling on the next government to do a full review of the support currently available to unpaid carers. Unpaid carers are the backbone of support for people with MND, and the financial support they receive does not reflect the contribution they make. We want this to change.
You can urge your MP candidates to sign the MND Guarantee by taking part in our e-action – it will only take a few minutes.
Previous episodes
You can listen to all previous episodes on your chosen podcast platform. You can find out more about each episode and read the transcripts on the page below.
Views and opinions expressed by guests on MND Matters do not necessarily represent those of the MND Association. We make every effort to ensure the information we share is accurate. We welcome comments, suggestions or corrections. Please email [email protected]
Please consult your health and social care professional for medical advice in relation to your particular circumstances. This podcast is owned by the MND Association. Registered Charity no. 294354.