The popular BBC drama Casualty is featuring a character who has motor neurone disease. Below you can find answers to questions about the character, storyline and our involvement.
Representation of MND on TV
What is the storyline on Casualty around MND?
Character, Gethin, has appeared on the drama already having been diagnosed with MND. He is the ex-husband of Paramedic Jan, who is a regular on Casualty, and they meet by coincidence when Gethin needs assistance (not related to his MND).
Gethin’s storyline sees him struggle with his diagnosis and express an intention to travel to Switzerland to end his life.
Has the Association helped shape the storyline?
The Casualty team approached the Association, confidentially, after they had scoped out the storyline for Gethin. They had been working with another charity (which isn't MND specific) who had already advised them on the assisted dying process, and they then came to us to ask for support about the specifics of MND.
Various members of our team, and specialist nurses in our network, have supported by providing information, reviewing scripts, sharing information about support, equipment and advising on progression of MND.
I am experiencing similar symptoms to the character on TV. Do I have MND?
If you have any concerns at all, please speak to your GP in the first instance.
We also have information on our website about Early signs of MND.
End of life decisions
During August’s episodes of Casualty, Gethin decides he wants to travel to Switzerland to end his life. He informs Jan, his carer, of this decision.
If you have MND, you may have concerns about the later stages of the disease and what will happen with your future care. Our publication End of life: a guide for people with motor neurone disease has been developed to help with end of life decisions, so that your wishes and preferences are known and respected. This comprehensive and candid guide provides guidance on how to plan ahead and communicate your choices to family and professionals.
The MND Association is a membership organisation and supports all people with MND, their families and carers. Our members hold a wide range of views on assisted dying, so we do not actively campaign for a change in the law. You can find our statement on assisted dying and information from reviews of our stance on our policy page.
Where can I watch Casualty?
Casualty airs on Saturday nights on BBC One and iPlayer. You can find out more information and catch up on episodes on the BBC website.