FutureNeuro, the Research Ireland Centre for Translational Brain Science, is bringing its My Moving Brain Community Connect series to the University of Galway on Saturday, November 1. Funded by the Research Ireland Discover Programme and delivered in partnership with Epilepsy Ireland, the Neurological Alliance of Ireland, and the Galway Sports Partnership, the Galway event is the final stop in this national series exploring brain health and inclusion in sport for people living with brain conditions. The event is supported by the Galway Science and Technology Festival and forms part of the festival’s 2025 programme.
Addressing a critical need
More than 860,000 people in Ireland live with conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system — including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, dementia, stroke, and functional neurological disorder (FND ). While the benefits of physical activity for brain health are well documented many people still face barriers to participation, often due to stigma, or a lack of awareness.
My Moving Brain offers a supportive space for conversation, connection, and activity, showing how small adaptations and informed coaching can make all the difference.
Paddy McGeoghegan, advocacy and communications manager at Epilepsy Ireland, said: "Epilepsy Ireland is delighted to be part of My Moving Brain and to support the Galway event. Unfortunately, we have encountered instances where people approaching our service have been excluded from sport because of their epilepsy — often due to a lack of awareness of the condition. With simple safety measures in place, people with epilepsy can fully participate.
"For us, My Moving Brain is an important opportunity to continue our work in this area and to further educate those involved in local sporting activities about epilepsy," he added. "Through the lived experience of epilepsy being shared at this event, we are confident that many more people will leave better informed about the condition."
What to expect
The programme features inspiring talks, Come and Try sessions — including Pilates, orienteering, GAA, and activator poles— led by local clubs and the Galway Sports Partnership, plus interactive science activities with FutureNeuro researchers, giving attendees the chance to engage directly with brain science in a hands-on way.
Advocacy organisations, including Epilepsy Ireland and FND Ireland, will also provide practical advice and resources for individuals, families, and sports clubs looking to become more inclusive.
Inspiring stories of resilience
Returning as host is Dr Michael McKillop, MBE, a four-time Paralympic gold medalist living with epilepsy and cerebral palsy. In his keynote, Seizing Control: Winning with Epilepsy, McKillop draws on his experience of competing at an elite level while managing his conditions.
"Epilepsy is not just a medical diagnosis; it's part of who I am," said McKillop. "It's crucial to challenge misconceptions and show that neurological conditions don't have to limit a person's potential."
Other speakers include Fergus Farrell, challenge seeker and mental health and disability advocate, who will share his journey of resilience following a spinal cord injury and the role of community in recovery, and Eamon McPartlin, founder of FND Ireland and chartered engineer, who will speak about universal access to sport facilities and why inclusive participation in sport and exercise matters.
This free event welcomes families, educators, sports organisations, coaches, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in brain health and inclusion in sport. Register via Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.ie/e/1754128227749?aff=oddtdtcreator or contact [email protected].
