Westminster Virtual Rare Disease Day 2022 Reception
23 February 2022
Nerve Tumours UK joined the annual international event aimed at raising awareness and highlighting the needs of people with rare diseases.
There are over 6000 rare diseases affecting over 3.5 million people across the UK.
Collectively, rare diseases are not rare.
Today, the rare community came together to raise awareness of the common issues affecting those living with rare conditions.
We joined the Westminster Rare Disease Digital Forum, chaired by Liz Twist, MP and Chair of the APPG on Rare, Genetic and Undiagnosed Conditions, and hosted by the Genetic Alliance.
![](/images/common/image_(3)_1024x768.jpg)
We heard from people affected by rare conditions, discussing the progress of the National Plans for Rare Diseases, which are due to be launched this year.
Maria Caulfield, the Minister responsible for rare conditions, spoke on the future for rare conditions.
![](/images/common/image_(11)_1024x768.jpg)
The Neurofibromatosis community was represented by Dexter Parker who has Neurofibromatosis Type 1, giving insights on how the condition affects his daily life,
![](/images/common/image_(5)_1024x768.jpg)
now a young aspiring student and a story of determination and hope. Thank you Dexter for your support.
![](/images/common/Dexter_1024x768.jpg)
Watch his address to the reception here
Stay tuned on our social channels for Rare Disease Day 2022 on Monday 28th February
Filter News
![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/comedians_cover_photo_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
RAISING THE ROOF COMEDY NIGHT
First night on the NTUK 40 years Comedy Circuit 2022 at London's Backyard Comedy Club
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Chloe_1_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Chloe’s NF1 story
Chloe gives an honest assessment about coming to terms with having NF1 and how it has made her determined & strong
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/KarennArtboard-1_500_572_s_c1_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
“Happy Easter”
A message from Karen, our Charity Director, wishing you a very Happy Easter!
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/image0_(2)370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Lisa helps Shine a Light on Neurofibromatosis in Belfast
Lisa has NF1, & lobbied the Belfast Lord Mayor to get Belfast City Hall lit up blue on Neurofibromatosis Day, 17th May
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/20170430_104321_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Alex’s NF1 story
Alex describes her life with NF1, growing up in care, doing adaptive boxing & gym classes & getting NCFE Care qualifications
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/874A4A6E-C1C4-4F33-88A7-7BBF8ABBF870_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Sumeeth’s Schwannoma story
Sumeeth, thought nothing of a muscle twitch after a hangover - it was the first symptom that led to a Schwannoma diagnosis
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/quino-al-rK_nz3DswX4-unsplash_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Laura’s NF1 story
Laura is doing a skydive fundraiser to raise awareness & funds for NTUK, after her daughter was diagnosed with NF1
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/queen-mary-logo_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
Disfigurement equality at work - research
This research study by Queen Mary University, London, aims to improve workplace equality for people with disfigurements
Read More![](https://nervetumours.org.uk/images/made/images/common/Comedy_night_370x280_800_600_s_c1.jpg)
RAISING THE ROOF: CHARITY COMEDY NIGHT IN AID OF NERVE TUMOURS UK
Join us in London on our first comedy night to celebrate 40 years of Nerve Tumours UK
Read More