Templeport man raises MND funds

Since being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Templeport man Thomas Doonan has lost more than 80% use of his arms and can walk no more than 100m before needing to sit down.

However, this determined man has not let the disease define him. Along with his wife of 38 years, Carol, and their family, Thomas has been raising awareness of his debilitating affliction since he was diagnosed. To date, over €65,000 has been donated in his name to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA).

The latest event was a sportif by Smugglers Cycling Club where participants cycled the ‘Ring of Cuilcagh’ in May 2023. Participants cycled distances of 55km, 90km, and 120km around the Cavan, Fermanagh, and Leitrim countryside and raised €4,474.37 in aid of IMNDA on behalf of Thomas.

It is the latest in a series of fundraisers spearheaded by Thomas. 'Moving for March' in 2022 saw Thomas and his supporters in Templeport and Bawnboy raise €45,000 through organised walks, cake sales, cycles, runs, and golf competitions.

Bawnboy Festival, Grace Devine’s Walkathon, Cuilcagh Triathlon Club, and others also donated on behalf of Thomas.

"I'm very grateful for people for their support of the fundraisers," said Thomas.

"It's great to get the support of your local community.

The IMNDA do great work so it's fantastic that people are willing to give to such a worthy charity."

Thomas also paid tribute to his wife Carol for her support. "Whenever I meet people we have a chat and they ask how I'm doing, but nobody ever asks Carol how she is.

She's my full-time carer and she does a lot for me every day, including basic tasks like getting me up, dressed, and washed every day."