Help Bryan O'Brien fight MND

Hello,

In late 2023, our good friend Bryan O’Brien (known to all as Bob) underwent tests for what seemed like an innocuous back injury. Sadly, the results of these investigations led to the diagnosis of a viciously aggressive form of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Bryan, who played rugby with Highfield and American Football with the Cork Admirals, is just 41 years of age. In six short months, his life has been dramatically altered, presenting significant challenges to his mobility and overall quality of life. This has brought huge challenges, not only to Bryan, but to his wife Charlotte and their three young children, all under the age of five.

For anyone who has met or knows Bryan, his trademark humour and determination are just two characteristics you would always associate with him. And so, like everything he does in life, he is facing this terrible disease with resolve, dignity, and of course, a few (often inappropriate) jokes thrown in for good measure.

We have launched this GoFundMe campaign to rally support for Bryan and his family during this difficult time. All funds generously raised will provide important assistance, such as covering home modifications, assisting his mobility needs, as well as exploring cutting-edge medical interventions and treatments. Currently, Bryan is actively seeking out clinical trials that offer hope in slowing down the progression of this aggressive disease.

Please share this appeal and look out for various fundraising activities to be launched over the coming weeks — from his teammates at his former clubs; his school friends from Coláiste Chríost Rí; his current co-workers at Johnson & Johnson; and past colleagues at EY, where he worked for 14 years.

Bryan has pledged any remaining reserves to MND Ireland so that they can research and develop medicines against this disease.

Thank you