Researchers at Queen's University Belfast's School of Psychology's Clinical Neurosciences & Neuropsychology Lab organised a very successful public engagement event on Friday 11th April, 2025, that focused on Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). 80 people, including FND patients, healthcare professionals, and primary careers, attended the event, which was organised as part of Daniel McCabe's PhD research with supervisors Dr. Kathy Ruddy and Dr. Anna Truzzi.

The purpose of the event was to provide a collaborative setting where current research may be directly informed by the lived experiences of individuals impacted by FND. Participants were asked to discuss their perspectives, difficulties, and aspirations for future treatment and comprehension of the disorder. A strong and unambiguous message was at the centre of the occasion: “We want FND patients to have a voice in the way their story is being told.” Attendees' participation and openness demonstrated how urgently the field needs more patient-centred and inclusive research.

Daniel will now use the insights he gathered from the event to further his PhD research on brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and non-invasive brain stimulation. While maintaining the voices and lived experiences of patients at the centre of the process, these investigations seek to investigate the underlying brain mechanisms of FND symptoms and uncover novel therapeutic intervention avenues.

Reflecting on the event's success, Principal Investigator Dr. Kathy Ruddy stated: “This event was truly special because of everyone's enthusiasm, honesty, and generosity. It serves as a potent reminder that the most significant research begins with active listening.”