On the 30th of July 2025 our lives change forever, this was the day that I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). My name is Lorraine Kelly Donnelly, I am a 51 year old wife, married to my husband Cormac for the last 20 years and mother to two beautiful boys Simon(18) and Dylan(14). I live in a lovely little village called Garristown in north County Dublin. Finding out that I had Motor Neurone Disease had a devastating effect on all of us. It was not the news we were expecting at all and a lot to process.
“Finding out that I had Motor Neurone Disease had a devastating effect on all of us. It was not the news we were expecting and there is still so much we don’t know about what lies ahead. But we are taking one day at a time.”
"Everyone who knows me knows that I am passionate especially around family, my career and my hobbies."
I have an awareness from working in the healthcare industry the importance of clinical trials and because of this I decided to volunteer for several trials supported by IMNDA. If I can help, in any little way, to understand this illness more and support even one person in the future it will all be worthwhile.
Having Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is difficult at times. I have tried to adapt as much as possible with the help and support of my boys. Simple things like tying my shoes, dressing and housework are now difficult. We have had to adjust somethings and I have had to earn to accept help without losing too much of my independence.
I will continue to fight Motor Neurone for as long as I can with the help of my family, friends and faith. I will never give up because I have a lot to live for.
"If I can help, in any little way, to understand this illness more and support even one person in the future it will all be worthwhile."
This year, the campaign is also shining a light on the vital role of IMNDA’s specialist neurology nurses, who provide expert care and practical support to families in their homes across Ireland.
Charlene, a specialist neurology nurse for the IMNDA supporting patients in Donegal and surrounding counties, sees firsthand the impact of community fundraising.
“Every day I travel to help care for people and families living with MND and I see exactly how much a cup of tea can really mean and the comfort it can bring.
“MND is a difficult, life-limiting disease, and it can all happen so fast. One day and one diagnosis, and everything changes. As nurses visiting people in their homes, we see the impact this has on families. But because of the public’s support, we can be there. That means providing regular home visits, care, and guidance when it’s needed most.”
Funds raised through Drink Tea for MND help ensure families across Ireland have access to specialist nursing care, practical supports, equipment, advocacy services and guidance at every stage of their journey.
How to get involved:
Hosting a Drink Tea for MND event is simple:
- Sign up at www.drinkteaformnd.ie
- Choose a date in March (or shortly after)
- Invite friends, family, neighbours or colleagues
- Put the kettle on, share some treats, and ask for a donation
Whether it’s a kitchen table gathering, a school bake sale, an office tea break, or a community event, every event makes a difference.
Lorraine sums up the impact of campaigns like this one: “If you’re thinking about hosting a tea party, please do it. Your support means families like mine don’t have to face this alone.”
To register or learn more, visit www.drinkteaformnd.ie.
