The Irish GAA community is rallying around to help after a former GAA star was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.A former Meath hurler, Fergus has been more recently been known for his role as referee in Meath, Leinster and on a national level in Croke Park.
"Since Fergus' diagnosis, he has maintained a positive outlook, with the support of his family and friends. However, funds are required to aid Fergus' battle.The fundraiser has already raised more than €20,000 of its €30,000 target. MND mainly affects adults who are over 40 and most cases develop in people between 50 and 70 years of age. However, MND can affect adults under the age of 40.The cause of MND are unknown, but it seems likely that genes play a factor, at least in some people with the condition. This is because 10% of people who develop MND also have a close family relative with the condition.The symptoms of all three forms of MND are similar, although there is a difference in how quickly each type progresses.
Common misconception A number of recent high-profile news stories abroad have involved people with MND attempting to fight a legal battle in order to obtain the right to euthanasia or assisted suicide. This has led to a widespread misconception that people with MND face the prospect of a painful and traumatic death from choking, malnutrition or suffocation.