Living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) brings enormous challenges — not only for the person diagnosed, but also for their families and loved ones. In a deeply informative and compassionate interview on Disability Matters, John Comiskey spoke with Naomi Fitzgibbon about the realities of MND, the supports available, and the importance of community care and awareness.
Naomi explained that Motor Neurone Disease is a rare neurological condition that affects the neurons responsible for movement, speech, swallowing and breathing. In Ireland, around 480 people are currently living with MND, with approximately 150 new cases diagnosed every year.
“Motor neurone disease is very complex,” Naomi explained. “The neurons that we need to blink, breathe, eat and move stop working — and when they stop working, unfortunately the body stops working too.”
One of the key messages throughout the conversation was the importance of early support and specialist care. Naomi highlighted the role of multidisciplinary teams including neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, dietitians and nurses — all working together to provide person-centred care.
The interview also shone a light on the vital work carried out by the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, which has been supporting people and families affected by MND for over 40 years. The organisation provides specialist nursing support, equipment loans, grants, advocacy, education and emotional support for families across Ireland.
Naomi spoke passionately about helping people remain independent and supported in their own homes for as long as possible.
“People want to stay at home, surrounded by their family and the equipment they need,” she said. “That independence is incredibly important.”
The conversation also highlighted the importance of research and fundraising. Naomi praised the ongoing work of Professor Orla Hardiman and research teams in Ireland and internationally who continue searching for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Listeners were encouraged to support the organisation’s fundraising campaigns and to reach out if they or a loved one are affected by MND.
This powerful interview is a reminder of the importance of compassion, community support and ensuring that nobody faces Motor Neurone Disease alone.
For more information visit: Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Read more: Research, Resilience and Real Support: The MND Story in Ireland,
Supporting Every Step: Understanding Motor Neurone Disease with the IMNDA,
Catrina Scullion on Music, Family and Using Her Voice for Hope
This interview aired on Disability Matters on 92.5 Phoenix FM, a programme produced by Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living (BCIL).
Tune in to Disability Matters Thursdays at 4PM | Repeats: Mon 3AM, Tue 3AM & 7AM | Also available on Mixcloud and on bcil.ie/radio.
Compiled by Valentyna Hordiichuk