Feeling the love to the tune of €16K for IMNDA

A Crossdoney woman, living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), has said she is overwhelmed by the love and support she received for a Valentine-themed fundraiser. Marilyn O'Connor organised and hosted the 'Dance While You Can' ball in support of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association in the Cavan Crystal Hotel last weekend.

A delighted Marilyn said: "It was a complete sell-out. There were 245 people there and it looks like we've raised over €16,000. There was great music from the 'Late Nite Radio' band who made sure the dance floor wasn't empty for the night."

She's keen to thank everyone who made the night so special, especially several people with Motor Neurone Disease who travelled a long distance to attend. "Six people with Motor Neuron Disease travelled from all around Ireland to be there on the night. Some of them came from as far away as Cork. It was really inspiring. When I entered the room, I made got a standing ovation, which didn't stop until I took my seat and got another one when I made a speech, it was really overwhelming.

"The hotel staff also excelled. They made sure everything was taken care of."

Marilyn says it won't be the last fundraiser she runs and is looking forward to running more events in the future.

"Afterwards I lay in bed thinking about what I can do next?, she revealed. "I would love to run the same event again next year. Hopefully I'll do something else before then."