Drink Tea for MND: Ireland Unites to Support Motor Neurone Disease Association

The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) is calling on communities across Ireland to “put the kettle on” this March for its annual ‘Drink Tea for MND’ campaign. This significant fundraising event aims to support the more than 470 families currently living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in Ireland.

A Personal Story Fuels the Campaign

This year’s campaign is championed by Lorraine Kelly Donnelly, a 51-year-old wife and mother from Dublin, who received an MND diagnosis in July 2025. Lorraine shares her experience to inspire participation and raise awareness.

“On the 30th of July 2025 our lives changed forever,” Lorraine said. “Finding out that I had Motor Neurone Disease had a devastating effect on all of us. It was not the news we were expecting and there is still so much we don’t know about what lies ahead. But we are taking one day at a time.”

Lorraine emphasizes the invaluable support she’s received from the IMNDA and the Motor Neurone team at Beaumont Hospital. Despite her diagnosis, she remains determined to live life to the fullest, continuing to work and enjoy activities with her family. She is also participating in clinical trials, hoping to contribute to a better understanding of the disease.

The Impact of IMNDA’s Specialist Nurses

The ‘Drink Tea for MND’ campaign also highlights the crucial role of IMNDA’s specialist neurology nurses. These nurses provide expert care and practical support to families in their homes throughout Ireland.

Charlene, a specialist neurology nurse supporting patients in Donegal and surrounding counties, explains the tangible impact of community fundraising: “Every day I travel to help care for people and families living with MND and I observe exactly how much a cup of tea can really mean and the comfort it can bring.”

“MND is a difficult, life-limiting disease, and it can all happen so fast. One day and one diagnosis, and everything changes. As nurses visiting people in their homes, we see the impact this has on families. But because of the public’s support, we can be there. That means providing regular home visits, care, and guidance when it’s needed most.”

How to Get Involved

Funds raised through ‘Drink Tea for MND’ directly support access to specialist nursing care, practical supports, equipment, advocacy services, and guidance for families navigating MND.

Hosting a ‘Drink Tea for MND’ event is simple:

• Sign up at www.drinkteaformnd.ie
• Choose a date in March (or shortly after)
• Invite friends, family, neighbours, or colleagues
• Put the kettle on, share some treats, and ask for a donation

Events can range from small kitchen gatherings to larger community events, and every contribution makes a difference.

“If you’re thinking about hosting a tea party, please do it,” Lorraine urges. “Your support means families like mine don’t have to face this alone.”

To register or learn more, visit www.drinkteaformnd.ie.