United Welsh raises more than £12k for the MND Association

United Welsh has raised more than £12,000 for its charity of the year, the MND Association.

Motor neurone disease (MND) was a cause close to many of our hearts after popular staff member, Ros O’Shea was diagnosed with the condition in March last year.

The MND Association, which works to improve access to care, research and campaigns for people affected by the disease, was chosen after the diagnosis.

Staff have taken part in fundraising challenges ranging from firewalking to half marathons.

They have continued to fundraise in Ros’s memory after she passed away in December, raising a total of £12,885.55.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Kelly O’Shea, Ross’s daughter, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to all of Ros’s friends and colleagues at United Welsh for all the fundraising efforts.

“Ros loved working at United Welsh and was so proud to be a part of an amazing organisation.

“It’s heartwarming to see how much she meant to everyone and how special she was. I hope there will one day be a cure for this devastating disease.”

The money will go towards the MND Association’s work supporting people affected by motor neurone disease.

Richard Shackelford, Relationship Fundraiser at the MND Association, said: “We are enormously thankful to all the staff at United Welsh for their cheerful dedication during our Charity of the Year partnership.

“Raising £12,000 is a tremendous achievement and will make a real difference for people living with MND and their families in Welsh communities, helping them access vital support when they need it most, as well as funding crucial research.

“This partnership shows the strength of compassion and community here in Wales, and we’re incredibly grateful to all the staff and residents who made it possible.”

One of the activities included a group of brave firewalkers walking across hot coals, raising £1,165.

A group of runners completed five parkruns, totalling 25k in one day, while staff also completed the Cardiff Half Marathon, Dublin Half Marathon and Caerphilly 10k.

Other activities included a sponsored swim, Halloween quiz, hair shave, fitness class bake sales and a raffle.

Richard Mann, Group Chief Executive at United Welsh, said: “Staff have been incredibly enthusiastic in their fundraising for the MND Association this year.

“The efforts across the organisation reflect how much Ros was cherished and valued as a colleague and friend.

“We are proud to have raised a fantastic total for the MND Association which we hope will make a meaningful difference to their vital work.”