Vital regional neuromuscular service offers lifeline to patients at Thompson House Hospital

​The former school teacher has praised the exceptional care and compassion he has received from the South Eastern Trust neurology team, which delivers the Regional Neuromuscular Service for Northern Ireland.

The service transferred from the Belfast Trust to the South Eastern Trust in November 2024. It was initially based at Lagan Valley Hospital but in October 2025, it moved to Thompson House in Lisburn, which is a regional hospital providing acute assessment and rehabilitation for adults with an acquired brain injury or complex neurological disability.

South Eastern Trust neuromuscular clinical nurse specialist, Sarah Mason highlighted the importance of having a dedicated Regional service.

“Once a patient’s diagnosis is confirmed, it is really important that they have their own specialist service," she said. “There are often no cures or definitive treatments for many neuromuscular conditions. Having our own service in Northern Ireland, based in Thompson House Hospital, is vital. Otherwise, patients would have to travel outside Northern Ireland, for care.

“We provide essential, practical support such as monitoring respiratory and cardiac function. There are more than 60 neurological conditions, some rare and some extremely rare and it is crucial that patients are seen by staff who understand their condition, can ensure they access the right services and can advocate for them with other professionals.”

Gerry Heaney recalled being referred to neurology consultant, Dr John McConville who at the time was based at the City Hospital in Belfast.

“After a while I was told the service would be moving to Lagan Valley Hospital in Lisburn. It did not matter where I went, as long as I was getting the right treatment by the experts,” said Gerry.

“When I was told the service was moving again to Thompson House Hospital. I have to say I was really impressed.

"Both the City Hospital and Lagan Valley are big, busy places. Thompson House Hospital is much quieter and more personable.

"It is fantastic and Dr McConville is here along with such a high level of care from the nurses and staff. I cannot fault anything about the care I have received.”

Coming to terms with his initial diagnosis, Gerry and his family faced further challenges when he was also diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia in February 2025.

This condition affects muscle co-ordination, balance and control due to damage or dysfunction in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for movement.

“I did have a bad fall at home and damaged my rotator cuff and hurt my ribs, but thankfully nothing was broken. I am coping and that is the main thing.” Gerry explained.

The neuro muscular clinic is located on the ground floor of Thompson House Hospital, with easy access from the car park. For Gerry who uses a rollator, this has made attending appointments much easier.

With his calm and positive outlook, Gerry shared how his diagnoses meant he had to step back from his ministry as a deacon in his church, but he remains hopeful: “I am hoping that in the New Year that I will be able to go back to assisting with Mass.

“The level of care I have received is second to none. I feel so well looked after. I have a great consultant in Dr McConville and a fantastic neuromuscular nurse, Sarah Mason. You could not ask for more.”

Neurology consultant, Dr John McConville, said the Thompson House Hospital location offers significant benefits to patients.

“What we have here is excellent access in terms of parking and wheelchair access," he said. “Thompson House Hospital is a really nice hospital with a strong rehabilitation background, making it an ideal environment for people with neuromuscular conditions.”

Dr McConville added, “We are very patient-centred and we aim to offer a holistic service.

"Our specialist nurse and specialist physiotherapist are experts in neuromuscular conditions and having the team based together at Thompson House Hospital allows us to carry out complex reviews of the multiple issues our patients often face.”

South Eastern Trust, assistant director of Medical Specialties and Cancer Medicine, Mary Jo Thompson, added: “We are delighted as a Trust to deliver the Regional Neuromuscular Service for Northern Ireland. Since October 2025, the service has been based at Thompson House Hospital, our specialist neuro-rehabilitation facility.

“It is fantastic to provide both inpatient and outpatient neuromuscular services from this beautiful and accessible building which is ideally suited to this patient group.

“We have a dedicated and highly skilled team delivering an excellent neuromuscular service for our patients.”