February is Rare Disease Month. A month to listen more closely. To stand stronger in advocacy. To amplify the voices of children, young people, and families whose experiences are too often unheard.

Rare diseases may be individually uncommon — but collectively, they affect millions. Behind every diagnosis is a story of resilience, complexity, and courage.

It is in this spirit that we are proud to announce #RAINFEST 2026 — a RAiN All Ireland event bringing together researchers, clinicians, young people, families, policymakers, and advocates to advance rare disease research, education, and innovation.
📅 Saturday, 28 March 2026
⏰ 09:00 – 17:00
📍 University College Dublin (UCD)

🔗 Please click the registration link: https://lnkd.in/eXu5_zgb

Call for Posters and Lightning Presentations: please click here. https://lnkd.in/erQz8wGK

This year’s theme:
“Voices Rarely Heard: Empowering Young People Living with Rare Diseases — From Lived Experience to Leadership.”

The programme features keynote speakers Susanne (Susa) Benseler and Catherine Quinlan, Children’s Health Ireland (CHI). We are offering interactive workshops, a young people’s forum, caregiver sessions, a “Thesis in 3 Minutes” track, and an interactive panel on the future of rare disease research and education (see programme details attached)

RAINFEST 2026 is proudly sponsored by Health Research Board (HRB), supported by University College Dublin and Queen's University Belfast, reflecting our strong cross-border collaboration.
🔗 Please click the registration link: https://lnkd.in/eXu5_zgb
Or scan the QR code in the programme to register.


Join us as we strengthen partnerships, amplify lived experience, and shape the future of rare disease research across Ireland and beyond.