Elin's story

My name is Elin and it was during my master’s degree in psychology where I uncovered a personal interest in the relationship between the brain and the nervous system. I believe this drive originates from my own experiences growing up with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), a neurological condition where my brain struggles to process words and sounds. Visiting restaurants or being out and about is difficult because my brain struggles to proritise which sound I should process, so it all becomes a bit of a blur. 

Growing up, I did not have any peers who understood what APD was or more importantly, how it felt to live with APD on a daily basis. Requesting for ticking clocks to be removed or asking for the volume to be turned down can feel more challenging when it feels like no one understands where you are coming from. After university, I wanted to find a charity where individuals do not need to explain themselves, but rather already understand and resonate with each others’ experiences. 

I started volunteering for The Brain & Spine Foundation because it is a fantastic charity which provides individuals with the opportunity to be heard and understood in their own unique journeys of neurological conditions. My role at the charity involves facilitating a social group online where individuals with neurological conditions can meet and connect on a monthly basis. Helping to create a safe and supportive environment is the most important aspect of volunteering for me, as I believe it is within this inclusive space where participants can feel most comfortable to share their personal experience.  

Another part of my role involves identifying similar areas of interest between participants and planning suitable topics for discussion to reflect these. My role feels most rewarding as I get to be a part of a very friendly and dedicated team where it is so obvious how much every individual cares. 

At university you learn theoretical knowledge about neurological conditions, but I believe the most important understanding cannot be taught through textbooks. The impact of volunteering at the Brain and Spine Foundation is gaining insight into the lived, everyday reality of these conditions and I feel honoured to be able to facilitate a platform where individuals can empathise with each other. I can confidently say that volunteering at The Brain & Spine Foundation is the highlight of my month! 

Find out more about our neuro social and other groups here.