Every year, approximately 150 people are diagnosed with MND. While there is no cure, Tommy’s fundraising effort will help improve their quality of life
Tommy Kehoe, who is sitting his Junior Certificate this year, was supported by five fellow swimmers on his journey, including one of his teachers, Ms Sandra Bates.
This month, the high-profile motor neurone disease (MND) diagnosis of former England rugby captain Lewis Moody at the age of just 47, caused shock around the world.
Speaking to BBC News, two weeks after his diagnosis, he said: “There’s something about looking the future in the face and not wanting to really process that at the minute.
“It’s not that I don’t understand where it’s going. We understand that. But there is absolutely a reluctance to look the future in the face for now.”
Lewis Moody, pictured in action for England in 2011 (Lynne Cameron/PA)
Every year, approximately 150 people are diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in Ireland. Today there are more than 480 people living with MND across the country. MND is a rare but devastating condition that progressively affects the ability to move, speak, swallow and breathe.
While there is currently no cure, early support and specialist care can make a significant difference to quality of life.
Fiona Thornton is Head of Communications and Advocacy for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, and she underlined the value of Tommy’s work.
“The IMNDA receives only a small portion of its funding from the State. which we are trying to change, meaning we rely heavily on public donations and community fundraising to continue our work.
“In fact, around 86pc of our annual income comes from the generosity of individuals, families, and local initiatives like this one. Without that support, our services simply could not continue at the level they do.”
Pictures from the swim.
She says that despite the challenges around funding their services, progress has been made.
“Over recent years, the availability of MND nurse specialists has expanded, in fact we just announced the addition of our 7th nurse last week. Awareness among healthcare professionals has also improved and we work hard to make sure we run regular informational webinars so that they are aware of recent developments.
“IMNDA has also enhanced our equipment loan service, counselling supports, and online resources, particularly since the pandemic.
“However, continued investment and public support are essential to sustain and further improve the level of care available to every person affected by MND in Ireland.”