Limerick man to undertake mammoth 140km run from Waterford to Limerick for Motor Neurone Disease!

On January 18th 2010 John Twomey lost his fight to Motor Neurone Disease. His son Jerry Twomey has decided to set himself the Tramore to Limerick Challenge to mark John’s birthday this year. On 27th July Jerry plans to set off from the home his father grew up in in Waterford and run the 140 kilometres to his final home in Limerick in a little over a week.

“We met angels and helpers in many forms while Dad suffered his illness with dignity. The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) was of immeasurable support to us and are a very worthy charity to go the distance for. When I set myself this challenge I had never run more than 10 kilometers in one go and thought it way beyond me. What better way to honour the memory of my brilliant Dad than to face a challenge bigger than I actually feel possible”

Please keep an eye out for Jerry pounding the streets; he’d be very grateful for the company if you fancy joining him for a mile or 2 along the way. He has already raised nearly €3000 for the IMNDA, please donate whatever you can spare at http://www.mycharity.ie/event/proudofjohn

In Ireland, one person dies every five days from this devastating disease. MND is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the upper and lower motor neurones. It is a condition that leaves people unable to do the everyday things that the rest of us take for granted. Walking, talking and swallowing may become virtually impossible.

MND strikes people across all ages and there is currently no known cure. The IMNDA provides specialised services for people affected by this debilitating disease such as equipment on loan, financial assistance towards home help, advice and home visits by a MND Nurse Specialist. The association also funds research.

In order to provide these vital services the IMNDA depends heavily on the generosity of the public and friends of the association who generate over 75% of its income.

imnda.ie / Freefone 1800 403 403 / email pr@imnda.ie