Family raises £14k for Motor Neurone Disease charity in fundraising events

Family raises £14k for Motor Neurone Disease charity in fundraising events

20 September 2023

A DOWNPATRICK family say their expectations have been exceeded after raising money for a charity close to their heart.

Having been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease last year, Claire O’Hare and her family have raised £13,770 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).

They raised the fantastic amount at a coffee and tea morning which was held in the Downpatrick RGU clubhouse on Saturday, September 2.

The money raised will be used by the MNDA for important care and research for others suffering from the disease.

The O’Hare family paid tribute to their family, friends and to everyone who attended, made donations and brought freshly baked buns.

Claire’s husband Seán said: “A massive thank you to everyone. We’d like to thank the RGU volunteers for hosting and sponsoring the event. You truly helped turn this fundraiser into a huge success.”

He also paid tribute to SuperValu Downpatrick, Asda Downpatrick, Ardglass Golf Club, St Patrick’s Golf Club and Haircut 2000 for their support, as well as neighbouring GAA clubs in Banbridge, Darragh Cross, Kilclief who participated in a junior blitz tournament and Tel’s Fitness for organising a 5K run.

All the leftover bakes were given to the Downpatrick Foodbank, the Simon Community hostel in Downpatrick, Lecale Lodge, Wards 1 and 2 at the Downe Hospital and Newcastle Foodbank.

Seán added: “Thank you for making this fundraiser such a huge success. We will be forever grateful.”