Over €6,000 raised for Taughmaconnell man battling Motor Neurone Disease

Over €6,000 has been raised for Taughmaconnell man Val Keogh, who was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease, Motor Neurone Disease, in 2025.

The community is now coming together for a 5km Walk/Run in Togher on Saturday, September 26, at 4.30pm, to raise vital funds for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. Entry to the event costs €10.

A total of €6,088 has been raised from some 150 donations as of Monday, September 7, on a iDonate page set up ahead of the event.

In a post by the Taughmaconnell Community Fundraiser Facebook page ahead of the event, Val is described as "a lifelong sportsman and dedicated member of the community".

"From his early teenage years playing with Skyvalley Rovers, to his involvement as a coach and referee, Val has always been willing to give his time to help others. His love of sport, his community spirit and his willingness to lend a hand have touched so many people over the years."

In addition to his support for his local community, Val's love of the outdoors was noted, including his initiative to plant hundreds of trees.

He has also travelled abroad on several occasions to help build orphanages in Russia, Belarus and Ethiopia.

Val was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease late last year, and has since volunteered to take part in a drug trial which could provide vital answers and hope for others living with MND in the future.

"The illness has already taken away his ability to play the sports he loves, but it has not changed the person he is, or his desire to help others," the post by Taughmaconnell Community Fundraiser added.

To donate, go to iDonate: Taughmaconnell Community Fundraiser