MIND Medical Initiative for Neurosurgical Discourse
Our Work
At MIND, our projects bring our mission to life, from educational initiatives and research collaborations to fundraisers and community outreach. Each project reflects our commitment to making neurosurgery more approachable, promoting brain and nervous system health, and creating meaningful opportunities for learning and engagement. Explore our current and past projects to see how we’re turning ideas into impact.
Current Projects
01
Scalpels and Synapses: Demystifying Neurosurgery
Scalpels and Synapses: Demystifying Neurosurgery is MIND’s podcast dedicated to opening up conversations about the field of neurosurgery. Each episode features neurosurgeons sharing their career journeys, insights, and experiences, from the operating room to everyday life, to make the field more approachable and inspiring for students and the community alike.
Reach out to franciska.otaner@mail.mcgill.ca if you're interested in participating!
Upcoming Projects
01
Rally Against Brain Tumors
In spring 2026, we will host Rally Against Brain Tumors, a community fundraiser in support of brain tumor patients and research at The Neuro. The event will bring together students, health professionals, and families for a day of paddle tennis in a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere.
More details coming soon.
02
Neurosurgery Case Conference 2026
In the summer of 2026, we will host the second iteration of our Neurosurgery Case Conference for students, led by neurosurgery residents at McGill. This session will offer participants the opportunity to engage with real clinical cases, deepen their understanding of neurosurgical decision-making, and learn directly from residents in an interactive, discussion-based setting.
More details to come.
03
Neuro in Bloom
In the fall of 2026, we will host Neuro in Bloom, a creative fundraiser bringing together art, music, and poetry in a reflective, welcoming space. The event will feature an art auction, live musical performances, and spoken word, inviting guests to connect through creativity and shared experience. Proceeds will support initiatives dedicated to advancing neurosurgery care and research, while supporting a sense of community and healing.
More details to come.
Past Projects
01
Hike for a Cause 2025
On November 1, 2025, MIND hosted its second Hike for a Cause on Mount Royal, bringing people together for a morning of hiking and connection. The event raised $900 in support of the Neuro Palliative Care Program at The Neuro, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting meaningful care initiatives.
02
Brain Tumor Research Bake Sale
On May 30, 2025, MIND hosted a bake sale fundraiser in support of brain tumor research at The Neuro, raising $400 through the generosity of students, staff, and community members. The event combined good food with a good purpose, helping advance research that supports patients and families affected by brain tumors.
03
Neurosurgery Case Competition
On March 21, 2025, MIND hosted its first Neurosurgery Case Competition for medical students, an opportunity to explore complex neurosurgical cases and apply clinical reasoning in a collaborative setting. The event was judged by McGill Neurosurgery residents Dr. Guido Guberman, Dr. Jack Lam, and Dr. Jocelyne Diabira, who shared valuable feedback and insights with participants.
04
Warm MINDs - Winter Accessories Drive
On December 20, MIND donated seven bags of winter clothing to Dans la Rue and Le Gîte Ami, made possible through community collaboration and the generosity of our members.
05
Hike for a Cause 2024
On November 2nd 2024, MIND hosted its first Hike for a Cause on Mount Royal, raising $1,000 to support the Neuro Palliative Care Program at The Neuro. The event brought together students, professionals, and community members for a morning of hiking, connection, and purpose.
06
Jewellery for Neurosurgery Fundraiser
On May 20, 2024, MIND held a handcrafted jewelry sale to support The Neuro, raising $1,500 through the creativity and generosity of students and community members. The fundraiser combined art and advocacy, helping advance care and research in neurosurgical health.