This symposium is dedicated to the memory and legacy of Christy Brown, an iconic Irishman and artist whose life and work continue to inspire people across Ireland and around the world. Born with cerebral palsy, he had no functional use of his upper limbs but taught himself to write, paint, and communicate using the only limb he could reliably control — his left foot.

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Christy’s extraordinary achievements were made possible not only by his own determination but also by the unwavering encouragement of his mother Bridget, who recognised his potential at a time when opportunity, treatment and understanding were scarce.

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His life story, based on his autobiography portrayed beautifully and accurately by Daniel Day-Lewis in the film My Left Foot, continues to impact and challenge perceptions of disability. It demonstrates that a person’s talent, intelligence, dignity and potential are defined not by physical constraints but by creativity, courage, and their unique human spirit.

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Christy Brown’s legacy continues to guide us in our work in Dublin, and reminds us to champion the worth, abilities and contributions of every individual. In that spirit, this Symposium brings together an International Faculty to collaborate, share knowledge, and advance understanding of upper limb disability treatment, promoting improved care and greater opportunity for people with disability worldwide.