BBS Mini Conference 2026: A Day of Learning, Connection and Shared Experiences
The BBS Mini Conference at the Athlone Springs Hotel was once again a great success, marking a welcome return to this popular and friendly venue. The event brought together families, individuals living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), healthcare professionals, and supporters for a day filled with informative presentations, meaningful connections, and the sharing of lived experiences from across the OI community.
CEO Patricia Osborne welcomed delegates and speakers to a diverse and engaging programme. Highlights included an insightful presentation on spinal surgery by Professor Adrian Gardner of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, an update on the latest developments in OI research from Professor Stuart Ralston of the University of Edinburgh, and an overview of adult OI care in Ireland from Professor Rachel Crowley of St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, who recently joined the BBS Medical Advisory Board.
The BBS would also like to express sincere thanks to Stephen Ryan, Alona, and the team at Narration for providing excellent technical support and photography throughout the day.
One of the key discussions centred on the provision of paediatric care for individuals with OI in Ireland. Families shared their experiences openly and passionately, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for improvement. There was strong agreement that families, patients, healthcare professionals, and supporters must continue working together to help ensure the highest quality of care for people living with OI.
Professor Crowley provided an overview of the services available to adults with OI, as well as exciting plans for future projects and developments. She also committed to sharing further information and resources with the BBS community. Professor Gardner’s presentation on spinal surgery was extremely well received, while Professor Ralston’s update on the TOPAZ trial generated significant interest among delegates. We were pleased to record Professor Ralston’s presentation, which you can view here.
A particular highlight of the conference was the lived-experience panel, where members of the OI community shared inspiring and personal stories from their own journeys. Attendees heard about involvement in research projects, an inspiring path to sporting success, and practical insights into navigating some of the challenges that life with OI can present. Panellists included Stephen Ryan, Julia Falvey Ryan, Dr Niamh O’Brien MacConnell, and Lucy MacConnell, whose contributions sparked thoughtful discussion and encouragement among delegates.
Children attending the event enjoyed a range of safe and engaging activities organised by Really Cool Parties. These activities allowed parents and carers to participate fully in the conference programme while their children enjoyed a fun, welcoming environment. Judging by the smiles throughout the day, the activities were a huge success, and many new friendships were formed.
The Brittle Bone Society extends its sincere thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to making the event such a success. We are also grateful to Angitia, Kyowa Kirin, and Mereo BioPharma for their support through grant funding, which helped make the conference possible.
BBS Trustee Liz Robertson attended the event and delivered the closing remarks, thanking speakers, delegates, volunteers, and supporters for their participation and ongoing commitment to the OI community.
Below, you can view the conference agenda, learn more about our speakers through their biographies, and browse a gallery of photographs capturing the highlights of the day.
Read the agenda for this event HERE.
Read the speaker biographies HERE.
