A Huntington's disease sufferer from Edinburgh has had an audience with the Pope.

The pontiff met campaigner Dina de Sousa and others at the Vatican last week.

Huntington's is a degenerative neurological condition which leaves sufferers needing 24 hour care.

Ms De Sousa, who works at Edinburgh University, said: "This was an unbelievable once in a lifetime experience. It was a day filled with different emotions.

"The aim was to raise global awareness and stop the stigma families have faced for so many years. I think it was achieved.

"It reinforces my goals for strong patient advocacy. I am fortunate to be part of such a close-knit Huntington's community."

Pope Francis met about 1500 sufferers and their families as part of Huntington's Disease Awareness Week.

He told them: "I know that some of you have had to brave a very long and difficult journey in order to be here today. I thank you and I am happy you are here."

"Fragility is not an ill," he said.

"May none of you ever feel you are alone; may none of you feel you are a burden; do not to give in to the temptation of the sense of shame or guilt."

There are about 1100 people in Scotland living with Huntington's and another 5000 are at risk of developing the condition.