Doddie Weir foundation donates £30k to support MND Scotland during coronavirus pandemic

People with MND are in the ‘high risk’ category.

The foundation set up by former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir has donated £30,000 to support MND Scotland during the coronavirus pandemic.

Weir revealed his MND diagnosis in 2017 and set up the My Name’5 Doddie foundation to raise funds for individuals with MND and research into a cure.

The foundation has donated £30,000 in addition to the £250,000 already committed to MND Scotland.

Picture: Eamonn McCormack

It has also given £70,000 to the MND Association of England, Wales and Northern Ireland to support people during the pandemic.

The pandemic is a ‘very worrying time’ for those with MND, as they are at higher risk than most.

“Having MND puts people in the high risk category of Coronavirus because our respiratory systems are already compromised,” he said.

“That means right now is a very worrying time for us. I am determined to do as much as I can to help alleviate some of those concerns.

“The money will be used by the MND Association in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and by MND Scotland to shore up the support they are offering people with MND at this time.”

Craig Stockton, chief executive of MND Scotland, said: “People with MND are among the most vulnerable in our society and during this very uncertain time, they need us more than ever.

“We are working tirelessly to develop and change the ways in which we support families affected by MND in Scotland, and this boost from Doddie’s foundation will help us stay connected to people when they need us most.”