Pilar Helena García Casanova, Valencia, Spain
Term of Fellowship: September – October 2023
Hosting department: Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford
Supervisor: Ass.Prof. Dr. Maria Isabel Da Silva Leite
I am pleased to write about my wonderful stay at the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences in Oxford, under the supervision of Dr Leite and Dr Thompson. Although this fellowship was initially scheduled to take place a year earlier, personal circumstances forced me to postpone it. However, with the unwavering support of both my supervisors and the EAN Clinical Fellowship team, it became a reality. For this reason, I want to begin this report by expressing gratitude to everyone who assisted me in making this fellowship possible, despite all the challenges.
Since the early years of my neurology training, I developed a keen interest in multiple sclerosis and engaged in research activities in this field. However, other autoimmune neurological conditions were less prevalent in my area, making me eager to enhance my expertise by seeking training in a specialised centre and joining Dr Leite’s team presented the perfect opportunity. The team not only focused on multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica (NMO), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disorders (MOG-AD) clinics but also included expertise in other autoimmune diseases, such as Myasthenia Gravis. This comprehensive approach, combined with pioneering research activities within a neurology department that featured specialised sub-units across all areas of neurology, made it a truly unique training opportunity for me.
When I finally joined the Oxford team, I had also developed an interest in neuromuscular diseases, especially motor neurone diseases. Fortunately, I was allowed to integrate both aspects of my interest during my stay. The Motor Neurone Disease Center in Oxford is widely recognised for its clinical and research activities. With a multidisciplinary research team, the center excels in combining expertise in fluid biomarkers, imaging, and basic research. This distinctive environment offers an outstanding opportunity to immerse oneself in the forefront of scientific knowledge in ALS research.
Thanks to the guidance of Dr Leite and Dr Thompson, my time at the Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences became truly enriching. I had the privilege of observing the training of a neurology resident in this distinguished centre. During my stay, I actively participated in various activities, including the Grand Rounds every Friday, weekly multidisciplinary team and research meetings, as well as journal clubs. I also attended neurology conferences that took place during my time there and gained insights into the structure of neurology ward duties in the UK. Additionally, I enjoyed the flexibility and autonomy to engage in clinics that matched other interests, such as dementias and other neurodegenerative diseases. Right from the start, I felt integrated both professionally and socially. This sense of belonging enhanced my experience in this extraordinary city that captivates you from the start.
I want to conclude by expressing my sincere gratitude to Dr Leite and Dr Thompson, as well as to Dr Talbot, Dr Turner, the entire MND-Centre team, and the EAN for providing me with this unique personal and professional opportunity.
