4th December 2019
Many thanks to Tesco Stores Deerpark, Killarney for selecting Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone as a beneficiary of in store community funds token collection for 2019. Many thanks to all involved
Picture below shows Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Christy Lehane receiving a cheque from Tesco Representative Eileen Cronin
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17 October 2019
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone hosted a very successful public information evening in the Plaza Hotel Killarney on Thursday 17th October 2019. This meeting was well attended . The theme of the meeting was “Telling Kerrys Story”of peoples association with Motor Neurone Disease. The meeting was opened by Chairman Christy Lehane who told those present that Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone was launched in Darby O’Gills House Hotel on the 11th May 2011 on the inspiration of of recently diagnosed Motor Neurone Sufferer John Reidy, his family and friends with the aim of raising awareness and fundraising for the IMNDA
Marie Reavey Regional Development Officer IMNDA informed the meeting of the work the association does for Motor Neurone Sufferers such as providing home visits by MND nurses, providing financial assistance towards home care, provision of specialised medical equipment and funding for counselling and research and telling all present that 83% of the IMNDA annual budget is reliant on fundraising and how this money is spent.
Mr Alan McDonnell formerly from Kilgarvan Co Kerry gave a very moving account of his mother Mary’s battle with MND. Mary was diagnosed with MND in 2005 and passed away in August 2011.Alan stated that it was so hard for both himself and his father Tom to watch what his mother was going through with this terrible disease . The family full of praise for the IMNDA and the doctors and nurses especially the palliative day care centre in Tralee Co Kerry
Speech and Language Therapist D. Dominika Leescka told the meeting in simple language of her interactions with MND patients saying that something as simple as listening to the patient does make a huge difference in understanding MND not alone for the patient but for the doctor also.
Rathmore man John O’Neill told the meeting of his wife Bridies association with MND saying that while Bridies illness was short she did not let it curtail her love of holidays and travel
We had a video presentation from Derrynane native John O’Donoghue who currently resides in Brisbane Australia telling the meeting of his Motor Neurone journey and we also had a video of his visit home to Ireland earlier this year.
IMNDA specialist nurse Katie Kinsella was the final speaker on the night and she outlined her work dealing with MND patients and their carers and she told the meeting that she was only a phone call away from people who might need her or have a question about MND,
In conclusion Christy Lehane Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone read an email he received from Andy McGovern who hails from Co Leitrim and happens to be the worlds longest MND sufferer having lived with the disease for 41 years. Andy is a true IMNDA ambassador and is always on hand to listen and help other Motor Neurone sufferers
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone hope that the meeting was of some help and enlightenment to people
A group of people at the the Kerry Friends ofÊMotorÊNeurone information evening in The Killarney Plaza Hotel on Thursday night . Included are Christy Lehane ( Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Disease Chairman) and Marie Reavey, (Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association Regional Development Officer) . Picture: Eamonn Keogh#
Elizabeth Kelleher, Katie Kinsella, Dominika Lisiecka, Christy Lehane, Mary Lehane and Tom MacDonnell take time out for a photo.
Left… John O’Donoghue and family at a cheque presentation in Cahirdaniel Parish Hall and at the Torc Hotel Killarney below after staging a three way fundraising Reindeer run in December 2017 for the IMNDA
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11th October 2019
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone received a cheque presentation from the Ring of Kerry Charity Committee in the Gleneagle Hotel Killarney. We thank the ROK Committee for selecting our charity again as a beneficiary in 2019.
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4th October 2019
Congratulations to to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association for organising a very successful AGM / Conference in the Hudson bay Hotel in Athlone Co. Westmeath. It was nice to be there to hear the many fine presentations given given by all the speakers to the huge attendance who braved storm Lorenzo to be there. It was nice to meet up with my friend Andy McGovern and have a good humoured chat and also to meet lots of other people many of the being Motor Neurone Sufferers.
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6th September 2019
Cork based grandchildren and friends performed their annual play in Blackwater Co Kerry recently.The theme of the play was “This is not a Cinderella Story”originally written and produced by two Rathmore ladies Aisling and Alice O’Neill who are grandchildren of the late Bridie O’Neill who recently passed away from Motor Neurone Disease. All proceeds of this play were donated to Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone. Thanks to cast members Rebecca, Cerys, Faye, Luke, Tom and Tadhg. Good luck on all your future endeavours.
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6th September 2019
It was with deep regret that we learned of the passing of the late Fr. Tony Coote
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10th August 2019
Congratulations to Clonakilty man Michael Hurley who recently took on the huge task of climbing Ireland’s highest mountain”Carraunthoohill” to raise funds for the IMNDA
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6th September 2019
The Cork based grandchildren and friends of the late Mrs Bridie O’Neill Rathmore performed their annual Charity play in Blackwater Co. Kerry recently. The title of the play was “THIS IS NOT A CINDERELLA STORY” originally written by two Rathmore ladies Ashling and Alice O’Neill who are the grandchildren of the late Bridie O’Neill who passed away some time back from Motor Neurone Disease. All proceeds of the play were donated to Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone. Thanks to cast members Rebecca, Cerys, Faye, Luke, Tom and Tadgh.
We wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavours and do keep us informed.
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6th September 2019
It is with deep regret that we learned of the recent passing of Fr. Tony Coote the Dublin priest who suffered with Motor Neurone Disease. What a champion he was for all Motor Neurone sufferers pushing himself to the limit to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease and to travel the length of Ireland to raise a huge €600,000 for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. Fr. Tony said early in his illness that his positive spirit did not free him from the every day struggle of coming to terms with MND feeling optimistic but frustrated. We thank Fr. Tony for telling his story so honestly and frank on RTE and other print medias surely giving some consolation to other Motor Neurone sufferers.
As Fr Tony was incapable of walking and if the truth was told he was probably not physically able for the mammoth 27 day 
journey never the less he chose to be pushed all the way in a very basic wheelchair by volunteers. He did all this to honour a commitment he gave when he was first diagnosed with MND. What a inspiration he was to all MND sufferers throughout the length and breath of Ireland. The huge monies raised by the 54 year old priest enabled the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association to hire a 4th Motor Neurone specialist nurse to care for our Motor Neurone sufferers. Everyone is so grateful to Fr. Tony Coote for all that he has done.May he rest in peace
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11th July 2019
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone wish to thank most sincerely the good people of Killarney who contributed so generously to our annual flag day collection in Killarney town on June 21st 2019. We especially want to thank our loyal collectors who never let us down with our fundraising efforts. This years flag day on the 21st June was also the International ALS / MND day. We were also very pleased at the level of awareness of people in the street of Motor Neurone Disease and many people wanting to help our Association.
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20th June 2019
Congratulations to Tralee Lions Cub President Sean Cooke and his Club members Teddy Reynolds and Pat Crean who raised a record breaking €52,000 by holding their 45th annual golf classic all in aid of local charities. As Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone I wish to thank most sincerely Tralee Lions Club for selecting our charity again as a beneficiary of of this golf classic held at Tralee Golf Club. Tralee Lions Club made cheque presentations to 15 local charities including Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone in the Meadowlands Hotel Tralee on Friday 14th June 2019
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22nd April 2019
On April 22nd 2019 at the Killarney Oaks Hotel Rathmore man John O’Neill and his extended family presented a cheque for €1,650.00 to Christy Lehane on behalf of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.This money was donated in lieu of flowers at the funeral of John’s beloved wife Bridie who passed away from Motor Neurone Disease on the 7th November 2018
Bridie was a much loved wife, mother, grandmother, friend and neighbour who bore her suffering with great dignity and courage
The O’Neill family said they particularly wished to thank Katie Kinsella the IMNDA specialist nurse, for the care and attention afforded to Bridie during her illness and they are also very grateful to the local medical professionals and back-up services who were always there to help.
“Special mention has to be given to Bridie’s two great friends , Margaret Hickey and Kathleen Kelleher, for their support and kindness down through the years but most especially during Bridie’s final illness”the family said. They also want to thank the people of Rathmore and the wider Sliabh Luachra area who supported them during this very difficult time and for also donating so generously to the charity
On behalf of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association Christy Lehane thanked John O’Neill and his family and all the people who contributed so generously and assured all that this money will go towards funding a recently created 4th IMNDA specialist nurse to care for our Motor Neurone sufferers.
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20th February 2019
On Wednesday 20th February 2019 in the Plaza Hotel Killarney Chairman Christy Lehane of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone made a cheque presentation of €26,500 to Marie Reavey Regional Development Officer of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. This money was raised by holding flag days in Killarney in 2017 and 2018, receiving cheque presentations from Tralee Lions Club, the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle Committee, Killarney Soroptimists, Ballinagree Vintage Club, Coffee Mornings and numerous Ceili dances held to raise awareness and funding for Motor Neurone Disease. Thanks to all the Business people, Supermarket Owners and all the good people who made generous contributions. Thanks to all our loyal volunteers who never let us down.
6th February 2019
On Wednesday 6th February 2019 in Kenmare, Co. Kerry Sean Daly & Co. presented a cheque for 650 euros the proceeds of their Annual Christmas Draw to Christy Lehane Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone. Every year those working in Sean Daly & Co. select a charity which they have appreciated during the year through personal experience, family members or friends. It was decided that the proceeds of the 2018 Christmas Draw was to support Motor Neurone Disease. In selecting Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Chairman Christy Lehane thanked Sean Daly & Co. for choosing Kerry Friends raising a huge amount of money and also creating a lot of awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. Christy Lehane assured all present that the money raised would be put to good use supporting the provision of a 4th Motor Neurone nurse
The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association of its kind in Ireland providing care & support to people with Motor Neurone Disease. The Association presently has 3 Motor Neurone specialist nurses in Ireland supporting over 370 patients diagnosed with MND.The charity is heavily reliant on public donations hopes to create a 4th nurse as a result of presentations like this one here in Kenmare, Co. Kerry.
Sean Daly stated “We at Sean Daly & Co. are delighted to help the IMNDA and we thank all our customers and friends who contributed to the raffle.
Picture L – R. Sean Daly, Grainne O’Driscoll, Christy Lehane, Mary O’Farrell and Fionnuala O’Shea.
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16th January 2019
On Wednesday 16th January 2019 both Elizabeth & Peggy Kelleher presented a cheque for €1000 to Christy Lehane Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone at the Heights Hotel Killarney. This cheque had been presented to Elizabeth and Peggy on the 12th January 2019 in the Lane Bar Ballinagree by members of Ballinagree Vintage Club and was the proceeds of both a family fun day and vintage car display held on the 28th September 2018 with the proceeds going to Motor Neurone Disease. Chairman of Kerry Fiends of Motor Neurone Disease Christy Lehane sincerely thanked Ballinagree Vintage Club officers Flor O’Driscoll, Helen Spillane, Rita O’Sullivan and committee members for selecting Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone as their chosen charity for this event and stated that this money will go towards funding specialist Motor Neurone Disease nurses wages.
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12th January 2019
On Saturday night January 12th 2019 in the Lane Bar Ballinagree the Officers and Committee members of Ballinagree Vintage Club presented a cheque for €1000 to Elizabeth & Peggy Kelleher being the proceeds of a family fun day and vintage car display held on 28th September 2018 with the proceds to be given to Motor Neurone Disease
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9th January 2019
Last September local Rathmore woman Shirley Nagle decided to host a coffee morning for a cause close to her heart in Cahills Bar Rathmore Co. Kerry. She called on her friends Kay O Keeffe, Nora O C onnor, Grainne Lynch and Sheila Casey to help organize this event. The aim was to raise awareness and funding for Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone and to acknowledge all the work done by the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association for Motor Neurone sufferers and their carers.
The coffee morning was an absolute success and the ladies concerned were overwhelmed at the huge turnout not to mention all the contributions they received on the day and the days that followed. A big thanks to the people who supplied all the food on the day. Thanks to Austin Murphy and Bernie Cahill for their hospitality in providing Cahills bar for the event. The generosity of the people was something to behold said Shirley but the people of Rathmore / Gneevguilla general area are all too familiar with Motor Neurone Disease. They remember the recent passing of Bridie O Neill while the late Paul Casey, Patrick Carmody and Patsy Hickey all passed away fro this awful disease some time back. As Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Disease. Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Christy Lehane took this opportunity to thank the families and friends of these people for all they have done for Motor Neurone Disease by raising huge amounts of money since Kerry Friends were formed back in 2011
In October Shirley, Sheila, Grainne, Nora and Kay went 100ft to the top of the Hogan Stand in Croke Park for an Abseiling challenge again this time to raise funding for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. This challenge was not for the faint hearted but as the girls said it was for a great cause as 86% of the Irish Motor Neurone disease Association budget is reliant on fundraising.
Sadly there is still no cure for Motor Neurone Disease but we are happy in the knowledge that the monies raised go towards the provision of specialist nursing care for motor Neurone patients and to afford them the comfort and dignity of spending their end of life in their own homes. We do not know when or who will need the service next but the one thing we do know is that the numbers of people being diagnosed with MND is on the increase.
Again thanks to the five girls for raising the huge amount of over €7,211 from both events. Brilliant
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19th December 2018
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone were delighted to accept a cheque for €730 from Elisabeth & Peggy Kelleher on behalf of T.J. Nelligan on Wednesday December 19th 2018 at the Heights Hotel Killarney. This was the proceeds of a ceili organised by T.J. on Sunday 23rd September 2018 at An Riocht Athletic Club. The Kelleher family and Kerry friends of Motor Neurone thank T.J. for organizing this fundraising event and creating awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. Thanks to all the dancers who turned up for the ceili and all the generous people who could not attend but donated. Thanks to An Riocht Athletic Club for providing their premises for the ceili. Thanks to the band Ui Bhriain – John & Martina who played exceptional music. Chairman of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone Christy Lehane stated that the money will go towards funding specialist Motor Neurone Disease nurses and providing specialist medical equipment thus enabling Motor Neurone sufferers to spend the the end of life in the comfort and dignity of their own homes. Co Kerry has the highest number of MND patients per capita in the country. Fundraising is still very necessary as 86% of the annual income of the IMNDA still relieson fundraising
Ceilí raises vital funds for a good cause.
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8th December 2018
_ Fr Tony Coote and Motor Neurone Diseasete 2
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13th October 2018
To day is IMNDA Croke Park Abseil day. Congratulations to the five Rathmore girls who took to the skies all in aid of raising much needed funding and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease.
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28th September 2018
Local girls Kay O’Keeffe , Nora O’Connor , Shirley Nagle , Grainne Lynch and Sheila Casey organised a most successful coffee morning in Cahills Bar, Rathmore Co. Kerry for Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone and they also plan to do the IMNDA Croke Park Abseil later in the month. Good luck girls and I hope ye enjoy the views of Croke Park from on high
.Charity champions want to make a difference
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11th September 2018
Have a good read. Andy McGoverns book (Against the odds)Andy McGovern
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7th September 2018
Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association ( IMNDA ) held their Annual conference in Clayton Hotel Wexford Town on 7th September 2018.Nice to meet old friends and also new faces. After the business of the A.G.M the following speakers made presentations
Leslie Buckley spoke on Voice Banking with M.N.D.
Johanna McDonagh , Information & support Officer I.M.N.A
Joan Fogarty -Paliative Care-Benefits of Intervention.
Jim Connolly-Future Financial Planning
Dr Eoin Finnegan – MND Research Update Ireland and Beyond
New C.E.O. IMNDA Roisin Duffy addressed the conference .
See photo taken at AGM front L – R Hamufai Mtumiri ,Bridie O ‘Neill , Marie Reavey. Back Christy Lehane and John O’Neill.
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5th September 2018
Tralee Lions Club held their annual charity golf classic earlier this year and raised almost 40,000 for their chosen charities. Teddy Reynolds speaking on the day of the presentations said it was their 44th consecutive golf classic. Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone were delighted to be selected as one of the beneficiaries again this year.Thanks to Teddy, Tommy Conroy and all his hard working committee for all the work they do supporting local charities. Pictured here Christy Lehane accepting cheque on behalf of Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone along with Tralee Lions Club committee members and other beneficiaries.
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8th July 2018
The documentary “The window in heavens gable ” made by Athea man Ed O Connor to honour the late Kieran Gleeson a keeper of the flame of cinema in North Kerry for 30 years until he succumbed to Motor Neurone Disease. All proceeds from the screening of the film in his cinema “The Classic in Listowel” were presented to Christy Lehane on behalf of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association by Kierans wife Teresa and children Alice and Ciaran.
Photo L – R…Teresa, Alice and Ciaran Gleeson, Tomina Shine (Cinema Staff), Christy Lehane and Ed O’Connor (film Maker)
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22th June 2018
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone wish to thank sincerely all the people who donated to our recent very successful flag day in Killarney. Thanks also to all the volunteers who collected for us on the day.
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13th June 2018
Elisabeth, Peggy and D.J. Kelleher from Kilgarvan Co. Kerry present a cheque for 2150 to Christy Lehane on behalf of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association in the Castle Heights Hotel Killarney. This was the proceeds of a ceili held in the Fossa Community centre earlier this year.
Also readCeilí raises over €2,000 for worthy cause
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13th February 2018
Killarney Soroptimist president Eimear Moynihan presented a cheque for €1,000 to Christy Lehane, chairman of KFMN. Many thanks to the Soroptimist for selecting our charity as a beneficiary this year.
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8th February 2018
At a packed Parish hall in Catherdaniel, John O’Donoghue & family present a cheque to Christy Lehane, IMNDA ambassador.
6th February 2018
John O’Donoghue & family make a cheque presentation to Christy Lehane on behalf of IMNDA for €46,038 in the Torc Hotel Killarney.
23rd December 2017
Congrats to all that helped out with fundraising for the Raindeer walk/run through Killarney national park on the 23rd of December 2017 and thanks to all those who took part in flag day in Killarney town on the same day. This fundraising was organised by Kerryman, John O’Donoghue who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease in 2016.
Read‘They saved my life. I wouldn’t have been able to do it on my own’
ReadRaising funds for Motor Neurone – Independent.ie
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18th October 2017
Liz and Peggy Kelleher presented Christy Lehane on behalf of KFMN with a cheque for €600, on behalf of T.J Nelligan, Castleisland being the proceeds of various ceile dances.
An article can be read about this event & donation on KillarneyToday.com – Full Article
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13th October 2017
At the Gleneagle hotel, the Ring of Kerry charity cycle committee presented Christy Lehane with a cheque for €2,000 on behalf of KFMN, who are a category 3 charity.
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10th July 2017
Tralee Lions Club donated €2,000 to Christy Lehane on behalf of KFMN. Thanks to Brendan Kenny, Teddy Reynolds and the Lions Club committee who organised a golf classic raising over €40,000 to go to 14 charities.
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2nd July 2017
A big thank you to everybody who helped stewarding or the Ring of Kerry cycle 2017
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23rd June 2017
KFMN held a flag day at both Daly’s Supervalu and Tesco in Deerpark to raise much needed funding to retain specialist motor neuron nurse for all motor neuron patients. This being international motor neurone week, we thank everyone who supported us so generously!
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13th May 2017
In the Heights Hotel Killarney, Peggy Kelleher & family presented a cheque for €3,400 to Christy Lehane, ambassador for IMNDA to raise awareness and to also retain a motor neuron nurse in the Munster area.
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26th April 2017
KFMN make a cheque presentation to IMNDA CEO, Aisling Farrell and development officer, Marie Reavey for €38,708.86. This was the proceeds of May fundraising events & donations since 2014.
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26th March 2017
Peggy Kelleher & family from Kilgarvan plan to organise a ceili dance in the Lake House in Tuosist with all proceeds going to IMNDA.
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14th February 2017
KFMN are delighted to be selected as category 3 for funding by the Ring of Kerry charity cycle for 2017 Presentation to be made in October, many thanks to Tony Daly and his committee.
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31st January 2017
Lir Cafe coffee morning raise 5,500 euros for Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
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13th January 2017
Thank you to Tesco store, Deerpark for selecting KFMN as a beneficiary of in store token collection, which later converted into euro, raising €326.09. A special thanks goes to Catherine Sweeney, thanks Catherine!
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18th August 2016
KFMN held a flag day in Killarney town, and was also fortunate enough to be joined by Spanish students that were very keen to learn about MND along with bettering their understanding of the English language.
The photo below was actually taken by one Spanish student, who kindly forwarded it onto us!
Many thanks to all that volunteered on the day and helped us to raise a total of €1,528.
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14th August 2016
Vintage Tractor Run in memory of Sean O Se with all Proceeds going to IMNDA.
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5th August 2016
John Cahalane, captain of Keel Golf club, presented a cheque of €100 to KFMN.
Many Thanks John.
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1st July 2016
Ring of Kerry 2016
A special thank you to all that helped with the stewarding of the event
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21st January 2016
Huge thank you to Sarah Walsh and everyone at the Classic Movieplex in Listowel, their charity screening of “The Theory of Everything” raised a brilliant €2,338.40 in the memory of Kieran Gleeson.
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24th November 2015
Staff at Marks and Spencers’ store Killarney held a collection in Store for KFMN collecting €286.94.
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16th November 2015
Tralee Flower and Garden club hosted a flower demonstration, display and sale with all proceed donated to IMNDA.
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September 2015
Attended AGM of IMNDA in Charleville Park Hotel.
Christy Lehane pictured with Angela Hogan and Andy McGovern.
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3rd July 2015
Thanks to everyone who volunteered to assist KFMN to park all those vehicles in the cathedral car park for the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle.
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1st July 2015
Brosnan family making presentation to IMNDA the proceeds from Primrose gala ball held in Tralee in memory of Tommy Brosnan.
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21st May 2015
Motor Neurone Disease Global Anniversary Day!
From Andy McGovern:
I’m one of those with MND/ALS MND who cannot give the thumbs up sign on this our MND global awareness day. 21st of June. But I am fortunate to have survived 40 years with the disease. I call on research to redouble their effort in finding at least something to arrest this terminal disease. At 82 years of age – I doubt if anything will be found in my lifetime. But that does not worry me. I plea for my colleagues who will be diagnosed tomorrow and hear this shocking sentence: “You have MND. There is no cure, life expectancy 2 to 5 years.” The ice bucket fundraising endeavour has raised awareness all over the world of this cruel disease and has raised millions. The people of the world are behind us! I do believe that if this disease reached epidemic proportions or become contagious – then a cure would be found in short time. But one person in 40,000 contacting this terminal illness is definitely a major drawback as far as research is concerned. “What’s one in 40,000”?? Wake up research – you found a cure for abola disease in a very short time. “A voice in the wilderness – Happy Grandfather’s Day Andy
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18th May 2015
Christy and Mary Lehane accepted an invitation to attend the IMNDA Day at Aras An Uachartain organised by President Micheal D Higgins and his wife Sabina.
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8th May 2015
Churchill Drama Group presented a to Christy Lehane on behalf of the IMNDA.
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23rd March 2015
Many thanks to Martina Griffin for organising in-store fundraising for KFMN in Tesco’s store on new Street, Killarney.
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24th February 2015
Tralee Rotary Club organised a flag day for KFMN raising a total of €2,728. Thanks to Chairman Derry O Sullivan and his committee and all who supported for their generosity.
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22nd February 2015
Killarney School of Music launch a new CD in the Gleneagle of their music with their group called “FiddleHeads” and band members Grainne and Tadhg organise the event and kindly donated a portion of the sale of the cd to KFMN. Many Thanks You can watch them here
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15th January 2015
The Brosnan family, Tralee, make plans to organize a primrose gala ball in memory of the late Tommy Brosnan to be held in the Ballingary House on 17/4/15 with all proceeds going to KFMN.
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2014
Annual Review 2014 – Motor Neurone Disease Queensland. Annual-Reveiw-2014
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22nd November 2014
Tralee Rotary club held a flag day in Tralee town with proceeds going to KFMN. Thanks to all that helped on the day!
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21st November 2014
Demonstration and launch of Eye gaze device in Plaza Hotel Killarney.
Article on the eye gaze device – Eye Gaze Device Article
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14th November 2014
Knocknagashel Halloween group makes a cheque presentation to KFMN.
Article on Independant.ie Knocknagashel Halloween
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8th October 2014
IMNDA regional officer Marie Reavy announces ice bucket challenge raises 1.6 million.
“Ice Bucket Challenge Nets €600,000 for Trinity Motor Neurone Disease Research” – Link to full article on tcd.ie Full Article
Pictured below is Marie Reavey with Andy McGovern.
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29th September 2014
Christy Lehane, chairman of KFMN receives a cheque of €950 from gneeveguilla GAA.
Picture, from left to right; Nuala OKeeffe, Gobnait Carmody, Christy Lehane, Fr. Kevin McNamara, Nora Murphy, Betty Carmody.
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11th September 2014
Margret McCormick makes a presentation of €1500 to KFMN. The proceeds of a car rally day held in Aghadoe in memory of the late Jimmy Devane.
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9th September 2014
Killorglin Community College make a presentation after hosting an ice bucket Challenge for KFMN. Many thanks to you.
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9th September 2014
Intermediate School Killorglin hosted an ice bucket challenge for KFMN Raising €1000 presented by teacher, Colm Conway and Vice principal James O’Mahoney. It was much appreciated.
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31st August 2014
Killcumin GAA organised ice bucket challenge for KFMN. We wish to thank chairman Willy Fleming and his committee for very wet evening.
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28th August 2014
Kenmare Ice bucket challenge organised by cllr. Dan McCarthy, chairman of Kenmare Mart, raising a cool €1000 for KFMN. Watch Video here
Excerpt from KenmareNews.biz,
Councillor Dan McCarthy’s ICE Bucket Challenge in Kenmare Mart, in aid of Motor Neurone Disease, raised over €1,000 at the recent show and sale. Dan was first into the ring as Timothy Clifford auctioned buckets of iced water to throw over him. Six buckets were auctioned and Dan had four buckets thrown over him, he then then nominated Kevin Reilly and Tim Kelliher who had the remaining two buckets thrown over them. It was all in a good cause and a bit of fun as well. Christy Lehane the Chairman of Kerry Motor Neurone Disease addressed the crowd and expressed his delight with the big turnout, the great atmosphere and the time allocated to raise awareness and money in the middle of a busy sale.
pics Mary O’Neill
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20th August 2014
Concert in the Gleneagle Hotel hosted by the Lynch and Burns families in aid of KFMN fundraising.
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16th July 2014
Radio Kerry presenter Weeshie Fogarty kindly invited Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone personnel to his very popular radio show to talk about Motor Neurone Disease. This gave our Association a great opportunity to create much needed awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. The following committee members took part in the hour long programme.
Christy Lehane, Nora Murphy, Tom McDonnell and Mary Lehane Media Player _ Radio Kerry
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Ring of Kerry cycle 2014. KFMN are delighted to be selected as a charity beneficiary for the 2014 RoK cycle.
Video of Ring of Kerry charity beneficiaries – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYxwlbaflmw
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4th July 2014
31st Ring of Kerry Charity Day, sponsors Lidl, Skoda, the Irish Examiner, Radio Kerry and Nature Valley. Christy Lehane meets Enda Kenny and Sean Kelly in Killarney where Mr. Kenny agreed to cycle for KFMN.
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The Ring of Kerry Cycle Beneficiaries 2014 – Nature Valley TV
Nature Valley – RoK 2014 Video
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18th June 2014
Liam Lynch Skoda Dealer Farranfore, supporting KFMN in ring of Kerry cycle 2014.
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29th May 2014
Chairman Christy delighted that Taoiseach is getting on his bike to help out the cause
A KNOCKNAGREE native who is living in The Kingdom was not going to let a golden opportunity pass when he met An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who was out canvassing for his MEPs.
Christy Lehane, who is the chairman of the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone, simply strolled up to Mr Kenny and asked him to “hop up on a saddle” for the Ring of Kerry charity cycle race on July 5. Mr Kenny immediately accepted the request and the rest, as they say, is history.
Mr Lehane of Tureen, Knocknagree said their voluntary group were firstly delighted to be one of nine chosen charities to take part in the famed Ring of Kerry cycle. Secondly, he was certainly chuffed when Mr Kenny said he would be “delighted,” to cycle in their charity race for them.
Mr Kenny will be joined by hundreds of participants from throughout Duhallow who want to lend their support. “We were firstly, just thrilled and very grateful to have been accepted by the organisers of the Ring of Kerry and to now have An Taoiseach cycling for us in July is simply the icing on the cake,” said Mr Lehane.
He said Mr Kenny was very well versed on the Motor Neuron Disease (MND) and he took a great interest and asked lots of questions about their charity. MND is a fatal disease that affects the motor neurons in the brain and the spinal cord causing muscle wastage.
Mr Lehane explained that it was set up in 2011 as his great friend, John Reidy of Killarney, was diagnosed with MND.
The duo had both worked at Eircom and had taken early retirement.
Mr Reidy was alive when the charity was set up and Mr Lehane said they currently have 18 volunteers.
While Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone is based in east Kerry, it lends a very supporting helping hand to people and their families throughout Duhallow.
Mr Lehane returned to his old stomping ground Duhallow and rounded up Anthony Nash, Aidan Walsh and Lorcan McLoughlin.
The trio along with Jimmy Barry Murphy have all given the cyclists who will cycle for the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone disease their full backing.
It’s the charity’s aim to purchase as many Tobii C12EGaze devices for their sufferers.
These devices resemble a computer screen in appearance with an in-built camera that is programmed so that the actions normally initiated by the computer mouse are instead triggered by eve movement. This enables patients to have a conversation, send emails and surf the internet.
These
machines
cost €13,000 of which there are 12 in the country of which four are in Cork. It’s their aim to bring some machines to the Kingdom.
The average life expectancy of someone diagnosed with the disease is between three to five years. In Ireland, one person dies every five days from it.
“Since our inception, we have been inspired by the many MND sufferers and their families that we have met along the way and they have given us great support and encouragement,” said Mr Lane.
With regards to the cycle on July 5, Mr Lehane said there has always been a “wonderful carnival atmosphere,” for cyclists as they make their way to the finishing line with crowds of people of all ages clapping and shouting warm congratulations.
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16th May 2014
Christy Lehane, Denis Russell and Pat Kelleher meeting Cork Hurling manager Jimmy Barry Murphy and some of the Cork Hurling panel who are pleased to support the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone in the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle 2014.
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17th March 2014
St Patrick’s day in Killarney, KFMN participated and secured a prize.
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2014
Mary Cronin Lady captain Ross Golf Club selected Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone as a beneficiary of their Charity outing. Many thanks Mary.
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3rd March 2014
Phil Lynch and Committee & Euro bridge club making a Presentation to Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone
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4th February 2014
Christy Lehane, Pat Kelleher, Sheila Casey and Mary Lehane had the privilege of visiting Emma Fitzpatrick, her husband Jonny and children, Ronan and Kitty. Emma was also demonstrating the use of her eye gaze device during the visit.
Irish Examiner reporter, Donal Hickey was also invited to discuss about doing an article on MND.
report here radio kerry article
Shape Shifting Emma – Radio Documentary
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30th November 2013
Killorglin Gun Club gave proceeds of fundraiser to Crumlin Childrens Hospital and Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone.
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25th October 2013
Lissivigeen National school held a fundraiser for Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone. All the pupils got dressed up in Halloween costumes and raised €360 for the charity.
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4th June 2013
The Angsana Spa at the Brehon Hotel organised a madhatters tea party and their chosen charity was Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone.
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28th March 2013
Celebrating 100 years in existence Rathmore G.A.A. Club organised a table quiz in the Star Bar with the proceeds going to Kerry Friends.
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4th October 2012
Maureen Harris gave Kerry Friends a cheque in memory of her friend the late Mary McDonnell R.I.P.
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30th January 2012
Gneevguilla / Rathmore gun club handed a handsome cheque to Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone.
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9th November 2012
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone received a donation from Radio Kerry Ring of Kerry Cycle Committee.
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4th October 2012
Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone present a cheque for €18,000 to Marie Reavey Regional Development Officer I.M.N.D.A. the proceeds of many fundraising efforts.
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6th September 2012
The Department of Justice Social Club made a presentation to Kerry Friends.
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26th July 2012
Kathleen Bowler presented a cheque on behalf of the customers of Murchu’s public house in Kenmare town. Please see page 4 for details.
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24th June 2012
Kerry Friends of Motor Neuron organised a walk / High Nelly cycle around the Lissivigeen Loop and was a huge success.
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14th June 2012
“Get on yer old bike” – An article by the Irish Examiner reporter, Donal Hickey
On yer (old) bike to battle motor neurone disease
It’s time to drag out that rusting old bike that has lain forgotten in the garden shed, most likely under lots of other clutter accumulated over the decades.
Dusted down and well oiled for the roads, two-wheelers from the distant past are being brought out for a novel High Nellie fundraiser on behalf of the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Those taking part in the event at Lissivigeen, Killarney, on Sunday, June 24, will be required to wear period costume from the 1950s and 1960s.
There will also be a loop walk in conjunction with the cycle, with prizes for the best-dressed men and women.
Last year, the Kerry friends of IMNDA raised more than €50,000.
About 300 people have the neuro-degenerative disease nationally, including 15 in Co Kerry.
IMNDA spends €1m annually, of which 20% comes from the HSE. The balance has to be collected through fundraising activities.
The programme will also include musical entertainment at Darby O’Gill’s outside Killarney, a tug-of-war, and children’s events.
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12th June 2012
Launch of proposed High Nelly cycle around the Lissivigeen loop on the 24th of June.
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20th September 2011
Killarney Golf and Fishing Club Lady Captain Mrs. Noreen Buckley organised a Golf Classic at Killarney Golf Club for Kerry Friends OF Motor Neurone.
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19th July 2011
A cheque for €45,000 was handed over to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association on 19th July 2011 the proceeds of many fundraising events held during the year including a family fun day walk around the Lissivigeen loop on the 26th June 2011.
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26th June 2011
A walk around the Lissivigeen loop to raise much needed awareness and funding for the Irish Motor Neuron Disease Association.
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15th June 2011
The late John Reidy – Hogan Stand. Reidy, John – HoganStand
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11th May 2011
Launch of Kerry Friends of Motor Neuron. A meeting was held in Darby O’Gills House Hotel where it was decided that a walk was to be done around the Lissivigeen loop on the 26th of June.
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20th April 2011
A coffee morning in MAC’s ice cream parlor, Killarney in aid of IMNDA. Total of €800 was raised on the day! Thanks to everyone involved.
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15th February 2011
IMNDA hosts an open evening in Killarney. Larry Joyce and Marie Reavey along with the consultant neurologist address the meeting speaking about motor neuron disease. Also in attendance are motor neuron disease sufferers and their carers. Thank you to all that were in attendance on the evening.