What does your brain mean to you? Have you ever wondered how it works? The brain is incredibly complex, and for many, being diagnosed with a neurological condition might be the first time you really stop to think about these questions. To encourage this exploration, we are launching the “My Unique Brain” art competition, an exciting new initiative inviting children and young people across Ireland to celebrate their remarkable brain. Participants are encouraged to use a variety of materials and techniques – whether through drawing, painting, collage or prints – to showcase their creativity and share their personal stories.  

A Legacy Continues 

Colette performing at A Head with Harmony.

This new initiative builds on the success of the “Head with Harmony” event held in September 2023. The event, which brilliantly fused music and our FutureNeuro science, spotlighted advancements in brain health research. A highlight of the evening was Colette Delahunt’s performance. A professional soprano and dedicated member of our Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) Panel, Delahunt not only enthralled the audience with her music but also shared a moving account of her family’s experience, including her son Sean’s rare epilepsy diagnosis by the FutureNeuro clinical genetics team. 

Colette and Sean with their family

Colette Delahunt shared, “It was incredibly special to use my voice not only for a performance but also to raise awareness of the vital work being done at FutureNeuro and to share how this important work directly impacted my own family.”  

“We are thrilled that the Art Competition will continue this vision – using the Arts to highlight, celebrate, and support FutureNeuro’s work – providing young people with an inclusive platform to explore and celebrate the theme of ‘My Unique Brain. The young people in my family are certainly looking forward to getting involved!” 

Support from the Community 

First-time marathon runner Amy Holtby also contributed to the success of “Head with Harmony” by raising funds and spreading awareness. 

Amy Holtby said, “The Head with Harmony event was my ticket into a new chapter for brain health. Colette’s brilliant idea for such a beautiful and inclusive event brought together people passionate about advancing neurological research. It was a shining example of the power of PPI engagement and the impact of research on patients and their families”  

Amy, who had recently begun navigating her own brain health journey following an MS diagnosis, found inspiration at this event during a profoundly difficult time. “Learning about the profound impact the FutureNeuro team, PPI panel members, clinicians, and scientists had already made on patients filled me with hope and optimism.” 

Amy running the Dublin marathon in aid of FutureNeuro.

How to Enter 

Fantastic prizes are up for grabs, including vouchers worth up to €150. Selected artworks may be featured in a special publication and displayed at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. The competition is open until October 10, 2024, giving participants plenty of time to create and submit their masterpieces. For more details and to enter, visit the My Unique Brain Art Competition website. 

Find out more about our commitment to PPI across FutureNeuro and how to get involved here.