Val Keogh (blue jacket with maroon top) pictured with the Taughmaconnell Community Fundraiser Committee as they presented a cheque for €83,311 to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) last Saturday.

Taughmaconnell man hands over €83k to Motor Neurone Disease charity

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Taughmaconnell man Val Keogh, who was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease Motor Neurone Disease in 2025, has donated over €83,000 to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA).

A total of €83,331 was presented by Val to Aine McFadden of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association at an event in Killeen’s Pub in Taughmaconnell, on Saturday, October 31.

The money was raised through the Taughmaconnell Community 5km Walk/Run Fundraiser, which took place on Saturday, September 26, and which organisers say was a "massive success", attracting a huge participation.

"The atmosphere at the event was unforgettable, and we could not have done it without the wonderful community of friends, family, and supporters who have backed us every step of the way," Val said on the fundraising page established for the event.

Speaking at the cheque presentation last Saturday, Karl Moore, chairperson of the fundraising committee, said: “This event was very special in Taughmaconnell and will be remembered by everyone for a very long time to come."

Ms McFadden of the IMNDA congratulated everyone associated with the event and said it was "a wonderful reflection of what can be achieved when a small community comes together to raise vital funds for families affected by MND".

More than 470 people are living with MND and anyone affected by MND or is in need of support due to MND should contact the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association at www.imnda.ie or by phone to :01 6705942 or by email to info@imnda.ie