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Our mother Kitty Bowden was diagnosed with MSA in 2003.  It is a rare condition, of unknown cause, with no cure nor treatment. Most likely treating healthcare professionals will never have encountered the disease. Mum's diagnosis and imposing uncertainty led to a frightening time for her and family. With no dedicated support for MSA available in Ireland at the time, we were unsure of what lay ahead. 

We were blessed with a very special group of carers; combined with a united and strong family bond we cared for our mother at home throughout the 19 years of her illness and in her final days. She was an incredibly strong woman, with an extraordinary desire to live, and defied all the odds stacked against her. 

There were many happy moments shared over the years but also challenging and uncertain times. Throughout her illness we were forced to adapt to each new symptom and changing way of life. Overtime, we made contact with the MSA trust who offered incredible support and insights into this rare and devastating illness. 

We hope our fundraising efforts can ensure the MSA trust is available to help and support patients and families during such incredibly difficult times, and eventually create a future free of MSA.

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