On 8 March 2025, the Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials Unit hosted 92 patients and family members/carers at the Unipart Conference Centre in Oxford.
The day was dedicated in the honour of Dr Matthew Craner who has sadly passed away in February 2024. We wanted to recognize and celebrate his contribution and achievements to commemorate the impact he made on MS research, education and service improvement. We marked the date for Patient Day on 8 March 2025, International Women’s Day, to acknowledge contributions of women in MS research.
The main aim of the day was to showcase the high quality of research that is being undertaken in Oxford, both commercially funded and investigator-led and impacts on the care of people affected by MS and their carers.
Several researchers then presented the projects they are currently working in the field of MS alongside Keynote Address in memory of Dr Matthew Craner.
We celebrated the International Women’s Day in the afternoon by reviewing Women’s role within MS research over the past decades. The journey of the Multiple Sclerosis Trials Unit was showcased from perception to date alongside the ‘Upskilling’ research nurses on Expanded Disability Scoring Scale training.
“I really enjoyed hearing about the variety of research happening in this area and in Oxford. It's really encouraging to hear about all the work happening, how our samples are being used and all the collaboration both in and outside Oxford. Love these sessions. Great level too as I appreciate the way the speakers breakdown their presentations so people like me could follow along."
“It was a very informative day, you all did so well, extremely welcoming & the refreshments & lunch were delicious." - Patient attendees