This June is Motor Neurone Disease Awareness Month, and one woman living with the condition is sharing her story in the hope that it will help generate increased support for others in her situation.
Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the motor neurones in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in muscle weakness and wasting. There are currently over 370 people in Ireland living with MND.
Róisín Foley, a 30-year-old single mother of three, was diagnosed with MND in September 2017.
She first noticed a weakness in her right hand, which subsequently spread to her left hand. She thought it might be arthritis, but after undergoing tests, she discovered it was MND.
Róisín says she didn't know much about the condition prior to her diagnosis, but it came as a shock: "I think I was in denial about it. It was a big shock to find it to be so serious."
Róisín has three daughters aged five, six and twelve, and she says the hardest part of dealing with the disease has been thinking about their future.
Her eldest daughter has been helping her with various tasks that she is now unable to do. "It's brought us closer and she's much more aware now."
The average life expectancy for people with MND is three to five years, but Róisín is managing to stay positive.
"I don't really dwell on it too much. I try to stay in the moment and enjoy each day."
Her family and friends help keep her spirits up. She is taking medication to help slow the progression of her illness and is also taking part in studies.
Róisín says that while she is still well enough to be able to help, she wants to give back and raise awareness of the disease. She credits the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association as being "a massive support for the entire family."
To help support Róisín and the MND Awareness month we want you to Drink Tea for MND in June.
To organise your Drink Tea for MND event all you have to do is email fundraising@imnda.ie or Freefone 1800 403 403 and we will send you out a Supervalu sponsored Tea pack.
If you can't organise a tea day why not make a tea donation just Text MND to 50300 and donate €2. (Some network providers charge VAT, meaning a minimum of €1.63 will go to IMNDA. Service Provider LIKECHARITY 0766805278)
The IMNDA depends heavily on the generosity of the public and supporters of the association who generate over 82% of its income.
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