Ex-rugby pro's MND fun run expected to raise £20k

A former professional rugby player who is living with motor neurone disease (MND) has hosted a fun run to raise money for his charitable foundation.

Ex-Coventry player Matt Gallagher, who now lives in Solihull, was diagnosed with MND in October 2023 and went on to create the Matt Gallagher Foundation to support families in the West Midlands affected by the disease.

More than 200 people gathered at the Old Silhillians Rugby Club on Saturday for the 3-km (1.86-mile) event, known as Matt's Run.

The foundation's efforts have raised more than £600,000 since it was founded and the run was expected to add another £20,000.

Speaking at the event, Mr Gallagher said in the last couple of weeks he had started to rely on the use of a wheelchair on a semi-permanent basis.

"What happens is you lose the use of your arms and legs but my tongue is fine," he said.

"I take everything with a smile now, we're here to make memories and try and raise awareness.

"The really important thing is we want to have a good time along the way and bring the community together."

A spokesperson for the foundation said the money raised had supported 40 families in the region by paying for adaptations to their homes such as installing wet rooms and hoists.

Mr Gallagher said he was inspired by rugby league legend Rob Burrow who raised nearly £20m with the help of his fellow teammate Kevin Sinfield before he died in 2024 after living with MND.

He had vowed to "pick up the baton" after Burrow's death and Matt's Run was part of a series of events to get people in the area involved and raise awareness of the disease.

Hollie-Mae Gallagher, the foundation's manager, added the event was about more than just fundraising.

"It's about instilling hope and making a real difference in the lives of MND warriors," she said.

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.