'We are not giving up hope' - Laois woman raises €6,000 for her sick father

Laois woman Joanne McEvoy aims to raise €10,000 for her father Brian who is suffering with Functional Neurological Disorder(FND).

She said: “My Dad, Brian McEvoy was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder.

“He has been in The Mater hospital since the 12th of June 2026. This condition has caused my dad to lose his ability to walk and he is now in a wheelchair full time.

“He is unable to stand without help, he constantly suffers with tremors and spasms, slurred speech and a number of other issues which are all part of the disorder.”

Brian has found it especially difficult as he is a very independent and hardworking man that now has that taken away from him.

“The Mater hospital are unable to do much for him and St Mary’s rehabilitation centre deemed him unsuitable for a place. There is no treatment pathway for FND in Ireland and those living with FND here in Ireland have to travel to the UK or further afield to access such FND rehabilitation programs.

“Even with access to specific multi-disciplinary FND treatment, a full recovery from FND may not be possible and many people need ongoing support to manage their symptoms and optimise their quality of life.

“My mother, Mary, gave up her job to be a full time carer for my Dad and travels up and down to Dublin everyday. She never complains and is always by his side.

“We are not giving up hope.

“All funds raised will go towards purchasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle and also to help towards the financial burden that comes with such a long and challenging recovery. We will try any treatment options we can find to help give my Dad the best quality of life that we can.”

You can donate to help Brian’s FND treatment here.