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
Hike for a Cause
On November 1st 2025, we’ll take to Mount Royal for MIND’s second annual Hike for a Cause, raising funds for the Neuro Palliative Care Program at The Neuro. The event brings students, professionals, and community members together for a morning of fresh air, connection, and purpose, with hot chocolate waiting at the finish.
More details coming soon.
02
MIND over Matter
On January 18, 2026, we’ll be hosting MIND Over Matter, 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 sports, wellness, and art, featuring activities like paddle tennis, yoga, and pilates, all in a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere.
More details to come.
03
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!
Past Projects
01
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.
02
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.
03
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.
04
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.
05
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.