Laytown Woman Walks in Memory of Friend Lost to MND

A Laytown woman living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is once again lending her strength and voice to a national campaign aimed at raising funds and awareness for others living with the condition.

Geraldine Phillips, who was diagnosed with MND at the age of 57, is taking part in the Walk While You Can campaign, an annual initiative run by the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA). The campaign invites people across Ireland to walk in solidarity with those affected by the debilitating neurological disease, with events taking place around 25th October.

Last year, Geraldine led a beach walk along the Meath coast, raising over €10,000 for the IMNDA. This year’s walk holds even deeper meaning for her, as it will be held in memory of her close friend, Eileen Butler, who sadly passed away from MND earlier this year.

“I walk because I can for myself, for Eileen, and for everyone living with MND,” said Geraldine. “Each step means something. It’s a reminder to keep going, together.”

Geraldine’s diagnosis changed life dramatically for her and her husband, Martin, who left his job of 20 years to become her full-time carer. The couple, who have two adult children, Laragh and Robert, have become passionate advocates for MND awareness and support.

Earlier this year, Geraldine and Martin bravely shared their journey at IMNDA’s annual conference, offering an honest and moving insight into life with MND a disease that gradually robs people of their ability to walk, talk, and eventually breathe.

Now, as one of the national ambassadors for Walk While You Can 2025, Geraldine continues to inspire others not just in Meath but across the country.

“Motor Neurone Disease affects the whole family,” said Geraldine. “Campaigns like this help others understand what it means to live with it and why support is so badly needed.”

Kevin Burn, CEO of IMNDA, praised the courage and commitment of ambassadors like Geraldine:

“Every euro raised helps fund our nursing care, counselling, and equipment for people living with MND. Whether you walk alone, with family, or as part of a community event, every step you take helps someone living with this disease.”

Also supporting the campaign is Dublin-based GP Paul McCormick, who was diagnosed with MND in early 2024 and has since dedicated himself to advocacy and research.

To register for a walk, make a donation, or learn more about MND, visit www.imnda.ie