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Page 1: Sign up for the London Triathlon Enjoy the Magic of the Mind

Newsletter Number 42 Spring/Summer2013

Sign up for the London Triathlon

Enjoy the Magic of the Mind

Alzheimer’s trials planned

Page 2: Sign up for the London Triathlon Enjoy the Magic of the Mind

The National Brain Appeal has now raised over £300,000 towards the Operating Theatres Appeal The appeal will fund the work of redeveloping and extending the hospital’s operating theatres, as well as equipping them with the most state-of-the art facilities available. “We’ve been overwhelmed by people’s generosity,” says National Brain Appeal chief executive Theresa Dauncey. “This is a massive undertaking, and we’re now at the stage of defining how the money can be spent most effectively.”

It is a very complicated project – not surprisingly, since the hospital’s already busy caring for the 4,000 patients who come through The National’s doors every year, and the building is right in the middle of a crowded city. “We have

built on every single bit of the existing site,” explains Jackie Sullivan, who is the divisional manager for Queen Square. “It is very different from building on a greenfield site because we’re entirely land-locked here. The area we’re getting to has buildings on every side. Even bringing materials in is incredibly complex – they have to come in over the roof, because we can’t bring them in any other way. And obviously we can’t move the patients out either; we need to be able to go on operating on site, while the new development goes ahead at the same time.” (see News from Queen Square for more on this)

As a result, the building plans are taking longer than originally anticipated. “We are committed to delivering the project, but we also need to do this in a way that allows the hospital to continue to function,” says Sullivan. The most important thing for everyone is that this is done absolutely right, so that The National can continue to be a world leader in the field of neurological research and patient care.

A good start for our appeal

Theresa in pyjamas at one of last year’s events

Ten million people in the UK suffer from a neurological disorder. It can be present from birth. It can develop slowly or primarily affect the elderly. It can occur through accident or injury.

The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery is the UK’s leading neurological

resource. It is a recognised world leader in neurological research and development and in teaching.

You can help provide hope to so many people by leaving a legacy, a covenant or a donation to The National Brain Appeal. Please call 020 3448 4724 for more information.

Leave a lasting legacyof hope

After what seemed like an eternal Winter, Spring is finally upon us. So it seems the perfect time for The National Brain Appeal to launch its newest venture, the Small Acorns Fund. This initiative will offer support for small projects that could make a big difference for patients at The National Hospital. The programme is open for any member of staff to apply for funding to fast-track their ideas.

We are all very excited about this as, while the big capital projects are obviously essential for the future success of the

hospital, we all know that it is often the smaller things that mean a lot for the patients being treated today. Until now, funding for these kinds of projects was very difficult to find. You can read more about Small Acorns and how you can support it on page 4.

And of course, Spring seems a very sensible time to talk about sporty events. The Olympic Effect has kicked in. Literally hundreds of people will be breaking in new sports kits this year to raise money for The National Brain Appeal through running, cycling, or swimming at a variety of events across the country (and globally!). The best of luck to all of you and thank you for supporting us through your endeavours.

Finally, no matter what the weather Spring and Summer bring, Autumn will inevitably return. Perhaps you might want to consider a bit of light-hearted fundraising to brighten the darker days and organise your own Pyjama Party event in October: For more ideas, visit www.pyjamaparty.org.uk

As always, an enormous thank you to all our readers for your support.

Theresa Dauncey Chief Executive The National Brain Appeal

A letter from our Chief Executive

The Institute of Neurology is planning to conduct new clinical trials The planned studies include a trial assessing therapies for people with Alzheimer’s disease – on participants who are at risk of developing the disease, but haven’t yet displayed any symptoms. Dr Jonathan Schott of the Dementia Research Centre explains why: “For individuals, families and for society in general we desperately

need a better understanding of what factors lead to Alzheimer’s disease, of how we can reliably identify it early and of treatments to prevent dementia. About 500,000 people in the UK have Alzheimer’s at the moment and as the biggest risk factor for developing the condition is advancing age, this number is set to soar over the next couple of decades. We are beginning to be able to identify the changes that happen in the brain as Alzheimer’s progresses, but there are currently no treatments that have been proven to halt or slow the progression of the disease. There are a number of drugs that have produced encouraging results in

the laboratory, but so far these have not been effective when given to patients in clinical trials.

“One possible reason for this is that trials usually target patients who already have dementia and in whom the disease is therefore quite advanced. Research suggests that there is a long period – perhaps 10 to 20 years – during which Alzheimer related abnormalities are building up in the brain but aren’t yet at a sufficient level to produce symptoms. If this is indeed the case, then this ‘pre-symptomatic’ period might be the best time to offer treatments, with the aim of preventing or delaying the onset of memory decline and dementia.

“Researchers at UCL have been in the forefront of identifying genes that are linked to rare early-onset cases of Alzheimer’s disease, so we can identify some people whom we know will develop Alzheimer’s disease. As part of a world wide effort, we will be involved in clinical trials targeting these ‘at risk’ individuals before they develop any symptoms, with the aim of preventing or slowing the onset of dementia. We are also about to embark on a big trial of people who are approaching the age of 70, using brain scans and spinal fluid testing to try and work out who is at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and might benefit from pre-symptomatic treatments as they become available.”

Alzheimer’s on trial

Contact us

www.nationalbrainappeal.org

The National Brain Appeal Box 123, Queen Square London WC1N 3BG T 020 3448 4724 F 020 3448 3698 [email protected]

@BrainAppeal TheNationalBrainAppeal

“The National” is published twice a year by The National Brain Appeal. To join the newsletter mailing list, please get in touch. © The National Brain Appeal The National Brain Appeal is the working name of The National Hospital Development Foundation Registered Charity No. 290173

Page 3: Sign up for the London Triathlon Enjoy the Magic of the Mind

Steve Mould

Sixty members of international law firm Carpmaels & Ransford entered the Virgin Active London Triathlon last summer. The team raised money for The National Brain Appeal as the firm’s charity of the year.

“The Triathlon offered the combination of working together as a team, taking part in different sports – not just running – and the option of a team relay as well,” explains senior associate Gillian Phillips.

If that sounds like the kind of thing that interests you, this year’s Triathlon takes place on 27–28 July and the Brain Appeal Triathlon Team is looking for members! Enter as an individual if you really fancy a challenge or make up a team of three (one swims, one cycles, one runs). There is a range of different levels to choose from and, although we can’t promise that any of them are easy, you don’t have to perform at ‘Olympic’ standard unless you want to.

And, of course, we will support you every step of the way. Visit our website or call 020 3448 4724 to find out more.

The office is buzzing with the anticipation for this year’s events

Get involved between Saturday 19 October and Sunday 27 October by holding your own pyjama-themed fundraising events. What better excuse to stay in your pyjamas than to show your support for and solidarity with the patients at The National Hospital.

Last year’s fundraisers, some of who are pictured here, organised everything from film nights to cocktail parties, pub crawls to sponsored sleeping bag races and we

even had a sponsored sleep walk along the Embankment!

Make our dream come true and organise your own Pyjama Party this year. The sky’s the limit… and so, we hope, is the amount you can raise.

Sign up today for your free fundraising pack at: www.pyjamaparty.org.uk

We are excited to announce our 2013 Summer event ‘Magic of the Mind’, a gala evening of fine dining, entertainment and dancing.

The event is being jointly organised by The National Brain Appeal and the Worshipful Company of Pewterers to raise funds for our Operating Theatres Appeal, and in order to continue endowing the post of the Pewterers Fellow at the Institute of Neurology. There have been 10 Pewterers Fellows to date, and the post is currently held by Dr Ivan Pavlov in the Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy.

‘Magic of the Mind’ will take place on Thursday 27 June at Bloomsbury Ballroom (London WC1) – one of the few remaining Art Deco ballrooms in London and recently lovingly refurbished. The evening will include a champagne reception, three-course dinner with wine as well as a live and silent auction of some extremely glamorous items and experiences. Entertainment will be provided by ‘street scientist’ and comedian Steve Mould, and

the evening will end with music and dancing courtesy of Down for the Count, one of London’s finest Swing bands.

Early bird tickets ordered before Wednesday 15 May are £145 per person. Tickets ordered after this date will be £175 per person.

To buy tickets please complete the order form on the inside back page.

A mind-blowing evening

Carpmaels: Triathlon heroes

Dream up your event for 2013’s Pyjama Party

Page 4: Sign up for the London Triathlon Enjoy the Magic of the Mind

Bupa 10,000 Date: 27 May For: Runners Deadline: 26 April The challenge: Follow in the footsteps of Mo Farah, running part of the course used for the Olympic Marathon. The details: The race starts and finishes in the Mall near Buckingham Palace. It follows a clockwise route around the City of Westminster and the City of London, passing many of London’s famous sights including Nelson’s Column, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Millennium Bridge, the Tate Gallery, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.

Ben Nevis Treks Date: 14–16 June, 4–6 October For: Mountaineers and trekkers The challenge: Conquer the highest mountain in the UK. The details: The 700 metre trek up the cliffs of the mountain’s north face is not technically difficult but it is strenuous, and you’ll need stamina and determination. The stunning views of the Scottish Highlands provide a fantastic backdrop to this epic weekend adventure.

Hadrian’s Wall Treks Date: 12–14 July 6–8 September For: Walkers The challenge: Trek the full 25 mile length of Hadrian’s Wall, and enjoy some breathtaking views and amazing ruins at the same time. The details: The most remarkable Roman monument in the country and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Wall cuts through Northumberland National Park and attracts trekkers from across the world. These challenging and historical walks, against a stunning backdrop are an amazing weekend challenge.

The Virgin Active London Triathlon Date: 27–28 July For: Runners, cyclists and swimmers Deadline: 7 July The details: See feature on page 3

RideLondon 100 Date: 4 August For: Cyclists Deadline: 1 May

The challenge: Just hours before the world’s top cyclists race the RideLondon Classic, help make cycling history – as one of 20,000 cyclists riding in celebration of the 2012 legacy. The details: RideLondon100 will start in the new Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, through the capital and on to Surrey’s stunning country roads and hills. With leg-testing climbs and a route recently made famous by the world’s best cyclists, this promises to be a truly spectacular event.

Run to the Beat Date: 8 September For: Runners Deadline: 12 July The challenge: Take part in London’s only half marathon run entirely to music, starting and finishing in Greenwich Park. The details: London’s only music half marathon last year featured Calvin Harris and Tinie Tempah. This year’s acts are due to be released soon.

London to Brighton Cycle Ride Date: 8 September For: Cyclists Deadline: 26 August The challenge: Ride over 54 miles from Clapham Common in South London to Brighton. The details: The spirit of this event is all about the taking part – no experience required. 2000 cyclists are expected to participate.

Royal Parks Half Marathon Date: 6 October For: Runners Deadline: TBC The challenge: Run 13.1 miles through four Royal Parks (Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James’s Park and Green Park). The details: This is a beautiful scenic route, taking in autumnal parks as well as historical landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall. It’s a very popular race too; last year 12,500 runners came from 35 countries around the world to race through the streets of London with 40,000 spectators and supporters cheering them on.

It’s often the small things that make a difference: and that applies at The National as much as anywhere else. Until now, The National Brain Appeal has mainly supported major capital projects at NHNN with long lead times.

The Small Acorns Fund will give front-line staff the chance to apply for funding to fast-track smaller scale projects that might have a big impact and benefit to patients.

The grants start at £500 and go up to £5,000 (which is still pretty small in the grants world!) Only staff at The National can apply – and they must have the support of their managers. “The money could be used on all kinds of things,” explains chief executive Theresa Dauncey. “It could buy an item of equipment. Or it could fund a project like a telephone helpline. Or it could be used for trialling a new system that’s helping outpatients attend clinics regularly and maintain

their medication.” They might be small changes, but the difference they could make to patients’ lives would be enormous.

Our aim is to raise £30,000 a year so we can respond effectively and quickly to projects. Tony Shellim, a trustee of the AB David Memorial Fund recognised the value of this programme and donated an incredible £10,000. “We liked the idea of helping a new initiative where our donation was likely to have more effect,” he said.

If you would like to support this exciting new initiative you can make a donation to the Small Acorns Fund by visiting our JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/Small-Acorns, by texting SMAF84 to 70070 (to donate £5) or by sending a cheque made payable to The National Brain Appeal.

Small is beautiful

The latest in the series of film shorts about UCLH hospitals has been uploaded to YouTube and features the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. It offers a unique insight into NHNN – from surgery, treatments, imaging, critical care, the stroke unit, rehabilitation, training and research.

Media lead Sharon Spiteri, who produced the films, said: “There was so much to choose from but the film had to be short and punchy so we had to select a handful of services to represent all the excellent work done at Queen Square.”

You can view the film at: http://tinyurl.com/cvtcam3

NHNN is also featured in the BBC2 ‘Keeping Britain alive: The NHS in a day’ series which first aired on 26 March. On October 18 last year, 100 camera crews were dispatched across the UK to film every corner of the NHS from cancer units to bariatric wards and air ambulances to neurosurgery.

The resulting eight-part-series shows the extraordinary breadth of demands that are placed on NHS on one single day. If you missed the series, you can catch up on iPlayer.

Neurology on film

Challenge yourself! For more information and to download an application form, visit www.nationalbrainappeal.org/events

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The MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases at 8–11 Queen Square has been renewed by the Medical Research Council After a detailed visit and reviews from some of the leading specialists around the world, it has also been awarded almost £5m in funding for the next five years.

Since it first opened in 2007, the Centre has established effective partnerships with NIHR Biomedical Research Centres at UCLH, Great Ormond Street and Newcastle and has developed a world leading focus for experimental medicine to develop new therapies for patients with serious muscle wasting neurological conditions. Over 2,500 patients have been entered into studies and trials, a UK national biobank has been established and new ground breaking MRI techniques provide more accurate ways to monitor patients’ progress and their response to treatment.

“We are delighted that the MRC has renewed our Centre,” says MRC Centre Director Professor Michael Hanna. “Over the next five years we will work with all our partners including patients, patient charities, UCL, NHNN and the Biomedical Research Centre to drive experimental medicine trials and identify better therapies for our patients. We are very grateful to The National Brain Appeal for the financial support which has enabled us to open the state of the art facilities and a world class environment.”

Team neurosurgeryThe neurosurgery team at Queen Square is now the biggest in the UK, with a team of around 20 neurosurgeons.

Over the past few years, specialists from the Royal Free Hospital working in intracranial neurosurgery, complex spinal surgery and emergency acute neurosurgery have been moving across to Queen Square. From 1 April this year, all neurosurgical services will be delivered from The National Hospital.

“The move has gone very well: both for the neurosurgeons and for the nursing and clerical staff who moved over with them as well,” says Queen Square divisional manager Jackie Sullivan. “We now have a huge amount of expertise brought together on one site. That means that specialisms like epilepsy surgery, deep brain stimulation and brain cancer surgery are all here, so that patients can see someone who knows their condition very well and has a lot of experience in dealing with it, even it if is relatively rare. It also means that neurosurgery has the backup of all the clinical staff, and that they are based in the same place as all research that is conducted here and at the Institute of Neurology.”

Chalfont Epilepsy Centre Opens Since 1997, The National Hospital has been working with the Epilepsy Society. On 1 March this year, a new clinical and research centre opened at the society’s headquarters at Chalfont in Buckinghamshire, thanks partly to £250,000 funding from The National Brain Appeal.

“The opening went very well,” says Professor John Duncan, Medical Director of the National Society for Epilepsy and Professor of Neurology at the Institute of Neurology. “It was great that so many people were able to come and see what has been achieved. This new centre brings all the clinical work much closer together, so it’s much more convenient for patients.

There are four more consulting rooms, so that we can increase the clinical activity, seeing more people at a time: and we’re also opening up the clinics to people with other neurological problems too. There’s a new clinical investigation suite where people can have investigations into their vision, scans into the back of the eye, and electrical studies of their nerves and muscles – all in the same place. There’s also a brand new laboratory, for which we have a lot of exciting plans.”

Professor Duncan adds: “It’s been very important that The National Brain Appeal, the hospital and the University have all worked together so closely. All the new research here will be closely connected to the clinical work, so any new advances into treating epilepsy can be put into practice without delay. It’s a very far-sighted venture.”

As part of the opening ceremony a time capsule was buried containing people’s hopes for the future of epilepsy research. It will remain buried until 2042 when it will be opened to see how far research has come and what expectations have been met.

Shuttle service Daycare patients who are staying overnight at Cotton Rooms, WC1 or other local hotels can now be taken there directly from the hospital, thanks to the new ‘Hotel Shuttle’ ambulance service.

There are two pickup and drop off times so patients know exactly when they need to be ready – and they don’t have to worry that they’ll be

late for their appointment either! The ambulances have adjustable seats for up to seven passengers and are fully accessible for wheelchair users.

Patients are already telling us that the new service has made a big difference to them and makes them feel a lot more cared-for. They’re being picked up by someone who knows about the hospital and the things that patients need – and at the end of a day that’s often been long, tiring and stressful, they know a familiar face will take them back to the hotel again. What’s more, staff appreciate it too, as it’s freed them up from lots of admin and means they can concentrate on providing the best nursing care for patients. Win-win all round….

National acclaim for The National The neurological research at Queen Square is world-famous, ranging from work on molecules to work on human beings…and now it’s had further recognition. UCL (the university of which we’re part) and its partners have been selected by the National Institute for Health Research to host three of the 12 national centres of excellence in ‘translational research’ which should lead to new developments in diagnosis and treatment. This is more centres than any other institution in the UK – and neurology is a big focus, including work on pain and headache, neurodegeneration and neuro-imaging.

updateThe money you donate makes an immediate impact at The National Hospital. Read the latest developments and news from Queen Square

Queen Square Centre is awarded new funding

The opening ceremony at Chalfont

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eventsWe have a full programme of events all year round. Find out what people have been up to or sign up to take part yourself

On Saturday 2 March, Stephen Smith hosted a Masquerade Ball in memory of his best friend Alan Lodge to raise money for his ‘Four Marathons in Four Weeks’ challenge. Alan sadly passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly last year of a cerebral brain haemorrhage at the age of 29. Instead of asking for flowers for the funeral, Alan’s family decided to support The National Brain Appeal and asked that friends and family make a donation instead –

to date over £12,500 has been donated in Alan’s name. This inspired Stephen to fundraise for us too by becoming our number one runner, undertaking several running events including the Royal Parks Half Marathon, the Brighton Half Marathon, the Hastings Half Marathon, not to mention his ‘Four Marathons in Four Weeks’ challenge. For his challenge, Stephen is running the Paris, Birmingham, London and Greater Manchester marathons on each Sunday in April.

“My hope is that the donations to The National Brain Appeal might go some way to enable the diagnosis and prevention of such brain haemorrhages, and mean that others will not have to endure the sadness that family, friends and colleagues are still experiencing at the loss of the one and only Alan Lodge.”

Over 300 guests attended the ball at the Oyster Shed bar in the City of London, looking spectacular in formal dress and masks. Stephen and his fellow organisers, Gemma Rogers, Julie Steel, Katherine Clark, Megan Smith, and Vicky Sait, had sourced amazing auction and raffle prizes, including signed footballs by both Chelsea and Manchester United teams, tour and tasting vouchers for four at the Chiltern Valley Winery and Brewery, and a pearl necklace. We were really touched by all the personal details which showed how affectionately Alan is remembered.

The night raised over £10,000 which is phenomenal and Stephen’s amazing fundraising efforts will almost certainly match what has already been raised in a real tribute to Alan’s memory.

Three Peaks for Parkinson’s

Having a ball for a great cause

We have events – big and small – throughout the year so if you can, please come along and join in. Our programme

changes regularly so keep an eye on our website, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest updates.

2013 dates for your diary

July12th–14th: Hadrian’s Wall Trek 27th–28th: The Virgin Active London Triathlon

November27th: Christmas Bazaar

Don’t miss! 19th–27th: The National Brain Appeal Pyjama Party

May27th: BUPA 10,000

October4th–6th: Ben Nevis Trek 6th: Royal Parks Half Marathon

April21st: Virgin London Marathon

September6th–8th: Hadrian’s Wall Trek 8th: London to Brighton Cycle 8th: Run to the Beat

June1st: The Lonnigans Skiffle Party 14th–16th: Ben Nevis Trek 27th: Magic of the Mind

August4th: RideLondon 100

December12th: Carol Concert

Matt Line took on the challenge of the South Wales Three Peak Trial in March this year, braving the snow and freezing temperatures to trek 20 miles over the three summits around Abergavenny, Monmouthshire in one day.

His father-in-law, Peter Martin, suffers from Parkinson’s and is a patient at The National. Matt wanted to raise money for The National Brain Appeal as the treatment Peter has received has greatly improved the quality of his life and made a very positive impact on the whole family.

Matt has set himself an ambitious target of £1,000 and has already raised £370. To help him meet his target, you can sponsor him at: www.justgiving.com/ Matt-Line1

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events

Did you know?

support

Your donations and support helps to fund patient care and research at The National Hospital

Making a donation

“Magic of the Mind” ticket booking form

Our website shop currently has a selection of fun family gifts on sale. Visit www.nationalbrainappeal.org/shop to find out more

Thursday 27 June at Bloomsbury Ballroom (London WC1)Read about this exciting event on page 3

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Tell us your stories“Suffering has not made me noble – it has released my inner bitch,” writes Lindy Jones, whose book ‘The Voice in My Head is Perfect’ (available from Amazon) describes her life with motor neurone disease. Jones is just one of a number of people who have started talking about their experience of a degenerative neurological condition; the most famous, of course, is fantasy writer Terry Pratchett (who has posterior cortical atrophy, a form of Alzheimer’s Disease), who has talked very publicly and honestly about his own

fears for the future, while continuing to write and publish his best-selling novels.

At The National Brain Appeal, we’re very keen to hear from anyone who would like to share their own story with the wider world. Your voices are the ones that really bring our message across, and show just why it is so important that The National Hospital can continue with its groundbreaking work. Please do get in touch if you feel you can help! Phone 020 3448 4724 or email [email protected]

Thank you We say “thank you” a lot at The National Brain Appeal – but however often we say it, that never feels like enough and we wish we could mention all our amazing supporters here. We owe a huge amount to everyone who raises money for us, however small or huge their donation may be.

A close shaveThank you Graham and his godson Tom who had their heads shaved to show support for Graham’s wife, Julia, who is currently undergoing intensive radiotherapy at The National for a brain tumour. They chose to hold the event at the Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club where Graham coaches and Tom plays for the under-15s.

Graham said: “Since Julia’s diagnosis with a brain tumour over 18 years ago, she has been superbly looked after and treated at The National. We are all so indebted that she is still with us and able to be such a wonderful mother, godmother and wife. In January, 11 years to the day after her surgery – an ‘awake craniotomy’ – she started six weeks of daily radiotherapy treatment. We have always meant to try and

raise awareness and money for the hospital, and this new treatment has given a good reason to follow it through.”

They raised nearly £5,000.

Well above parThank you Lorraine Hopwell, who captains Mickleover Golf Club, Derby where she raised £1,600 for Picks Disease research, because her husband has the condition.

Lorraine and her daughter Sam came to London to present the cheque to Professor Nick Fox of the Dementia Research Centre.

Laura tames TerryA massive thank you to Laura King who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in the summer of 2012. She found giving her tumour a name, Terry, made it easier to deal with: so her fundraising efforts became ‘Taming Terry’. Family, friends and colleagues from UK Sport joined Laura in taking part in a 10k run in Regents Park in September 2012, and her husband Paul then took on the challenge of a London to Brighton bike ride along with 15 friends.

Laura’s tumour was removed last October, and she is now

taking on the challenge of the London Marathon as part of the Brain Appeal team. In addition she has planned a ‘wear a hat to work day’ and her and 12 friends are tackling the Tunnel2Towers 5k on 21 July 2013.

So far Laura has raised over an incredible £10,000.

Ron’s heroicsSince 2004 Ron Gainsford has been, quite literally, an active fundraiser. His fundraising efforts have included trekking in Peru, Ecuador, Vietnam and Chile as well as an epic 4,000 mile motorbike ride to the Arctic Circle. He then took part in our 2012 Pyjama Party campaign – along with his whole office – organising a sleeping bag race, a wear your pyjamas to work day and a cake sale.

Most recently, Ron’s work colleagues organised a surprise

dinner in honour of his upcoming retirement. Knowing Ron’s support of The National Brain Appeal, they made sure the dinner was also a fundraising events. It is testament to him that nearly £1,300 was donated by the assembled guests.

To date, he has raised over £25,000. So thank you Ron for your continued support and amazing fundraising.

Every penny countsThank you to Alliotts, a worldwide group of chartered accountants and business advisors whose HQ is located close to The National, who have chosen to support us.

On a bi-annual basis Alliotts invites their staff to nominate a charity for the firm to support. Shawn O’Sullivan, a manager in their outsourcing team, recommended The National Brain Appeal. Shaun’s late father was a patient at The National Hospital and as a result he participates in an on-going research programme into dementia.

Shawn commented “After my personal experience I was keen to raise awareness of the amazing work of The National

Brain Appeal and to help its research into debilitating disorders.”

Gregory Ellis, Chairman of Alliotts staff Action Team, said “The National Brain Appeal was the overwhelming choice of the staff as so many of us have experienced the devastating impact of neurological injury or disease on people close to us, and contributing to the charity helps to provide some comfort.”

Throughout 2013 Alliotts will combine their fundraising efforts in a variety of ways including dress down days, raffles, donations in place of Christmas cards, and participation in the London Marathon. They have already donated £1,000 to date.

Walking his way to successA huge thank you to John Sullivan who organised a Sleep Walk in October 2012 as part of our Pyjama Party campaign, raising £2,500. Thirty people took part in wearing their pyjamas in a one mile walk along the embankment and ending with an after party at Opal Bar.

He is also one of our brilliant London Marathon runners and hosted a quiz night to raise money towards his sponsorship.

Laura King’s team

Ron Gainsford

Theresa meets Alliotts

John and friends

thanksThank you to all of you who have done so much over the past months to raise vital funds for The National Brain Appeal.

Graham, Julia and Tom

Lorraine meets Prof. Nick Fox

stop press

Patients with general neurological problems are benefiting from more specialist input with the launch of a new weekday consultant-led service across UCLH.

A consultant neurologist and specialist registrar from the NHNN are now available to review patients during

daily weekday ward rounds. Although the primary focus is on the acute admissions unit and ITU in the tower, they will also review patients with neurological problems throughout UCLH. A neurology specialist is also available on-site out of hours to provide telephone advice and see acute referrals.


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