Carberry calls on Mayo to support extraordinary fundraiser
MEP Nina Carberry has urged the people of Mayo to come out and support the FTD Brothers on Saturday, May 9, in Castlebar as they take on an extraordinary challenge - running 32 marathons in 32 days across all 32 counties to raise funds for dementia. Jordan and Cian Adams have already raised more than £1 million for their non-profit foundation and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, while shining a light on frontotemporal dementia, the condition that claimed the life of their mother, Geraldine, at the age of 52.
Earlier this week, local MEP Carberry, who is co-chair of the European Alzheimer’s Alliance, joined the brothers on their run to show her support and highlight the extraordinary work they are doing.
By 2050, the number of people living with dementia in Ireland is projected to more than double to approximately 141,200.
MEP Carberry said:
“The FTD Brothers are doing something incredible. It’s important for everyone to get out and show their support on their journey. This challenge shows how crucial it is to make dementia a European priority.”
Carberry, who has spent the past year working to put dementia higher on the European agenda, has written to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola seeking an invitation for the brothers to speak in Brussels, as key negotiations get underway on the EU’s priorities for 2028–2034.
Frontotemporal dementia, also known as FTD, is a rare type of dementia which often develops earlier than other forms, typically affecting people in their 40s. In 2018, Jordan Adams was told he has a 99.9 per-cent chance of developing the disease.
Carberry added:
“We have seen fantastic work already done in Europe through the Beating Cancer Programme, and we now need to show the same determination when it comes to dementia and Alzheimer’s.
“Research suggests that 1 in 3 people born today will develop dementia in their lifetime. That is why I have asked President Metsola to invite Jordan and Cian to Brussels. Their story is powerful, but it also carries a clear message - we must do more on dementia research, preventative treatment, early diagnosis, care and family support.”
Further information on the route, dates and how to donate can be found here.