Mayo man the face of MS Ireland’s World MS Day campaign
MS Ireland have announce their programme for World MS Day on May 30, under the theme of 'Diagnosis'.
This global event aims to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and provide a platform for individuals affected by MS to share their unique diagnosis stories.
Ava Battles, CEO of MS Ireland, stated: “World MS Day is a powerful reminder of the journey faced by over 10,000 people living with MS in Ireland. This year's theme, 'diagnosis', underscores a critical and deeply emotional milestone for many.
“We will be launching a powerful new information campaign on cinema screens across Ireland, bringing vital awareness of multiple sclerosis to a wider audience.”
Andy Walsh, from Ballinrobe, is the face of MS Ireland’s campaign for World MS Day.
“You hear stories about people’s lives changing in an instant, in books, on TV and in the news. But, until it actually happens to you, they’re just that - stories. They’re people you can offer sympathy to in passing and feel a little bit glad, deep down, that it’s them and not you,” said Andy.
“Multiple Sclerosis came out of nowhere and completely changed my life.”
Life was busy for Andy. When he wasn’t involved with motorsport events up and down the country he was coaching underage GAA and soccer with his local clubs, but a diagnosis of relapsing remitting MS changed all that in March 2020.
Looking back now Andy uses the phrase 'mixed blessing' to describe his Multiple Sclerosis. It has changed and improved his lifestyle since his diagnosis and he counts himself lucky to be able reframe the priorities in his life.
The campaign will run for six weeks starting on World MS Day, reaching audiences in major cinema chains including Odeon, IMC and Omniplex, as well as independent cinemas, covering a total of 83 locations nationwide. The advert offers a portrayal of the everyday realities of living with MS, aiming to promote understanding and connection.
Other events include:
Information Event: Webinar panel discussions with people with MS discussing their MS diagnosis journey.
Dip for Diagnosis campaign: Encouraging people to take a dip in water all over Ireland to symbolise the 10,000 people living with MS in Ireland.
Lighting of heritage sites: Illuminating sites across Ireland in red to show solidarity with the MS community.
Launch new podcast 'Living with MS': MS Ireland will be launching its new podcast on World Ms Day with Shirley Keane O'Brien who is a new member of the MS and Me blog team
Regional activities throughout Ireland: There will be numerous events happening across the country to mark World MS Day with the nationwide branch network.