Wexford student takes on a challenging sea swim to support MND care
A brave fundraising effort by a Wexford student has captured the attention of his community and highlighted the ongoing need for supportive services for people affected by Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Tommy Kehoe, a Junior Certificate student, completed a demanding swim from the Saltee Islands to Kilmore Quay, raising more than €4,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA). He was backed by a team of five fellow swimmers, including one of his teachers, Ms Sandra Bates, who joined the effort to ensure the journey was both safe and successful.
Building momentum through youthful determination
Tommy’s swim was more than a personal challenge; it became a community-wide fundraiser that underscored how local action can make a meaningful impact on national health charities. The crew on the water represented a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, united by the goal of supporting families affected by MND. Their story demonstrates how schools, clubs, and local residents can rally together to contribute to high-quality care and practical supports that people rely on daily.
Why fundraising matters for MND care in Ireland
Motor Neurone Disease is a progressive condition that currently has no cure. In Ireland, about 150 people are diagnosed each year, and more than 480 people live with MND nationwide. The IMNDA plays a crucial role in providing nursing support, equipment loans, counselling, and online resources, but it relies heavily on public donations and community fundraising to sustain these services. Fiona Thornton, Head of Communications and Advocacy for the IMNDA, notes that about 86% of the association’s annual income comes from individuals and local initiatives like Tommy’s swim. This dependency on voluntary support makes every local fundraising event essential to maintaining and expanding services.
The impact of funding on daily life for people with MND
IMNDA’s work translates into tangible improvements in people’s lives. The availability of MND nurse specialists has expanded in recent years, with the organization announcing the addition of its seventh nurse just last week. Awareness among healthcare professionals has also grown, aided by ongoing informational webinars and training opportunities. Beyond clinical care, the association has broadened its equipment loan service, counselling supports, and online resources—key components that help people living with MND and their families navigate medical, emotional, and practical challenges.
Continuing the fight: how communities can help
While progress has been made, sustained investment from the public remains essential to maintain and improve care. IMNDA’s leadership emphasizes that enduring support—from fundraising events, community drives, and everyday generosity—enables the organization to deliver high-quality services nationwide. Tommy’s achievement illustrates the power of youth-driven fundraising to raise awareness and inspire others to contribute in meaningful ways. Individuals, schools, and local groups can follow his example by organizing charity swims, runs, bake sales, or other creative fundraisers tailored to their communities.
A message of resilience from the MND community
As the world observed notable MND diagnoses in public figures, such as the recent announcement about former England rugby captain Lewis Moody, the broader message remains clear: early support and sustained care can significantly improve quality of life for those affected. The IMNDA’s work, backed by generous donors and dedicated volunteers, continues to push for better services and greater awareness, ensuring no one faces MND alone.
In summary
Tommy Kehoe’s sea swim from the Saltee Islands to Kilmore Quay is a testament to youthful energy, school-community collaboration, and the vital role of public funding for health charities. It shines a spotlight on MND, the experiences of people living with the condition, and the importance of ongoing support for specialized care in Ireland.
