Sometimes emotional, sometimes humorous, always honest – MND Matters gives people affected by MND the chance to share their stories.
With more than 30 episodes available, MND Matters brings together insight, experience and guidance from experts and people affected by motor neurone disease (MND). Each episode offers clear, trusted information alongside honest conversations about the realities of living with MND.
Listen to the latest episode below, or explore previous episodes to hear practical advice, personal stories and reflections on topics such as managing emotions, supporting family members and becoming a carer for someone with MND.
Our guests include people with MND, those close to them, our ambassadors and health and social care professionals.
Listen to episodes of MND Matters using the links below, or search MND Matters in your preferred podcast app.
Latest episode
Episode 39: Love, loss and the power of pets
“Sometimes the companionship of a dog is better than human company. They don't judge you. You don't have to speak. They're just there. And sometimes that's all you want, because it's hard.”
Through every chapter of our lives, our pets are right there beside us. We look after them, and they look after us. They’re not just animals we live with - they’re family.
In this episode of MND Matters, Domonique sits down with Lizzie from Woodgreen Pets Charity and Channel 4’s The Dog House. Lizzie’s husband Chris was diagnosed with MND at just 34. In this episode she discusses the challenges of being a carer while raising young children, but how bringing puppy Betty into the home gave the family comfort, routine and companionship.
Drawing on her personal and professional experience, Lizzie also shares practical advice for caring for pets while managing the changes MND might bring.
Watch on YouTube, or listen on your favourite podcast platform.
You may hear the very occasional bark during the episode – Lizzie’s dog Bumblebee couldn’t resist getting involved in the episode too.
Meet your hosts
Helen
Hi, I'm Helen, I am a Relationship 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!
Domonique
Hello. I'm Domonique, the Personal Stories Specialist at the Association. I'm passionate about raising awareness of the impact MND has on the individual, their family and friends, and their home. I work closely with the MND community including people affected, volunteers, health and social care professionals and researchers.
I'm honoured to be a part of the MND Matters hosting team and hope to create meaningful and impactful podcast episodes.
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 communications@mndassociation.org
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.