Classmates to ‘Shine a Light’ for Falty man living with MND

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Former classmates of Falty native Eoin Egan are set to gather for a special community event aimed at showing support for their friend, who is living with Motor Neurone Disease.

Organised by members of the St. Ciaran's NS Class of 1995, the event is taking place on Friday, July 10, at 10pm, will see participants assemble at Moore UTD soccer pitch, where candles will be lit and phone lights shone around the perimeter as a symbol of solidarity and friendship.

Organiser John Greene said the gathering is not a fundraiser but a simple way of letting Eoin know that he remains in the thoughts of his classmates and community. Organisers say the event will also include a tribute to a former classmate who died while they were in national school.

Eoin, who lives in England, is not expected to attend, although his mother will be present on the night. The community is being encouraged to attend and help “shine a light” for Eoin as a gesture of support.

In a video shared online, Eoin Egan described how recent medical technology has transformed his daily life.

“Recently, in December 2025, I received the Neuralink brain–computer interface implant in my brain, which enables me to control a computer with my thoughts.

“I use this to communicate with my family and friends. This has given me my independence back. "I have precise control of the wheelchair with my thoughts, which enables me to drive through tight spaces and around obstacles. What I most enjoy is being able to go for a walk with my wife and children again.

"This means I can go out and enjoy precious time with my loved ones and be actively involved in family adventures. I can be present and independent at the same time. Again, this technology has given me a new lease of life.”