Health conference next month to raise awareness of Huntington's Disease

A two-day health conference to raise awareness about Huntington’s Disease will be held on Island next month.

It's set to get underway at the Sefton Hotel on Thursday, 22 and Friday, 23 September.

Day one of the conference will focus on families, and include one-to-one sessions with a UK specialist.

There will also be displays by local organisations providing advice and details of what resources are available, such as advocates, dieticians, and Hospice.

Day two will focus on education and awareness, aimed specifically at local professional services such as GPs, hospital, mental health services, home care services, respite care agencies, nursing homes and other services.

Huntington's Disease is a rare, inherited  disease that causes the degeneration of nerve cells in the brain - currently there is no cure.

Manx Lottery Trust is backing the event, which will be aimed at families and professionals, with a grant for £8,236.

Sarah Kelly, Manx Lottery Trust Chairman, said: ‘From speaking with the HDA, it is clear there is a lack of awareness of what Huntington’s Disease is and what is needed to support Isle of Man patients and their families. This two-day conference will address this issue, providing essential information and support to local families and carers.’

To reserve free tickets, you can visit www.hdaiom.com

We spoke to Huntington Disease Association Committee Member Ashley Shepherd who told us about the future plans for the charity: