The AIT 5k fun run will take place on October 5 in aid of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association in honour of Nicky McFadden.
Registration commences at 10.30am and costs €15, for which participants receive a T-shirt and wristband. The race commences at 11.30am.
Áine McFadden from the race organising committee said: “A group of friends have organised this 5k event hosted by AIT in honour of our beloved Nicky to raise much-needed funds for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association that gave Nicky and all our family great comfort and support. There are many families in the Midlands benefiting from the great work carried out by the IMNDA and we want to give something back.
“This event is for everyone, both adults and children, to walk or run, and I urge everyone to participate and have fun, and in doing so, remember Nicky and support those who are suffering from this awful disease,” she said.
Gordon Brett, sport manager at AIT, added: “We are delighted to support this very worthy cause. Nicky McFadden was a very good friend of the institute over many years, and we are honoured to remember her in this way, while at the same time raising much-needed funds to help support those living with this disease.”
MND is a progressive neurological condition that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink, and breathe. However, not all symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order.
The IMNDA is dedicated to providing care for people with motor neurone disease, their carers and families, as well as supporting research into the causes and treatments of MND. In order to provide these vital services the IMNDA depends heavily on the generosity of the public and friends of the association who generate 86 per cent of its income.
There are currently more than 330 people living with MND in Ireland. MND is often referred to as the 1,000 day disease as most people die within 1,000 days of being diagnosed.
Anyone wishing to participate in the fun run can obtain sponsorship cards by texting (087 ) 6571691. Even if you cannot participate, it is still possible to get involved by donating online at imnda.ie
