There are more than 7,500 rare diseases, with 80% of those genetic in origin. Its estimated that rare diseases affect 4 million people living in the UK today.

The Rare Disease Research Team at the University of Plymouth, led by Dr Konstantin Glebov, Clinical Neuroscience - is striving to make a difference to the lives of those living with rare diseases in the South West and beyond.

The team are researching mechanisms and treatments for rare diseases such as Alexander disease and Central pontine myelinolysis, as well as trying to influence government policy and public funding for these drastically underfunded diseases.

For families living with rare diseases it can feel like you are pushed from pillar to post searching for answers often for many years. The team at Plymouth are trying to connect conversations between families, organisations and healthcare professionals -ultimately to develop better policies for patient care and research into rare diseases.

All donations will be directed to this research team and their work.