Former Wolfe Tones Bellaghy Manager Seamus Birt Raises MND Awareness

Seamus Birt, the former manager of the Wolfe Tones Bellaghy, recently opened up about his diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND), a progressive neurological condition that has dramatically altered his life since its confirmation in September 2023. The announcement comes just weeks before his 60th birthday, which he will celebrate in August 2024. Known affectionately as ‘Mama’ within the community, Birt hopes to leverage his experiences to raise awareness about this debilitating disease.

Birt's journey began with seemingly innocuous symptoms. In May 2023, he experienced painful muscle spasms, which he initially attributed to fatigue. "I’m the type of person who has hardly ever been with a doctor in my life, I was very healthy prior to this," Birt explained. His athletic background as a player and manager for the Wolfe Tones Bellaghy, combined with no family history of MND, led him to dismiss his symptoms for months. However, as his condition worsened, he sought medical advice multiple times, fearing a more serious underlying issue.

It was not until a visit to the Ulster Independent Clinic that he received an accurate diagnosis. “Within about an hour of seeing the private doctor he told me he was going down the road of Motor Neurones,” Birt recounted. The diagnosis was confirmed after extensive testing at The Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, marking a turning point in his life.

Motor neurone disease affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. According to the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), there are approximately 115 people diagnosed with this condition in Northern Ireland, with only two specialists available to provide care across the region (MNDA, 2023).

As Birt grapples with his diagnosis, he has had to step back from his engineering firm, Birt Engineering, as his mobility has declined due to muscle weakness in his left leg. He now uses a leg brace to assist with movement, reflecting on the lifestyle changes he has had to embrace. "If I do too much today, then I’ll do nothing tomorrow. You get very tired very quickly with it," he stated, underscoring the daily challenges faced by those living with MND.

In an effort to combat the isolation often associated with this diagnosis, Birt has initiated a fundraising campaign titled 'Mama’s Day for MNDA', scheduled for August 16, 2024. The event will feature a charity skydive, a 5K walk, and a community BBQ at the Wolfe Tones GAC Bellaghy. His two sons, Séamus Óg and Éamon, will join him in the skydive, which they see as both a personal challenge and a means to support MND awareness.

Birt's fundraising goal of £10,000 has already been exceeded, highlighting the strong community support in Bellaghy. “There’s a great community here in Bellaghy,” he noted, praising local businesses and individuals who have stepped up to contribute to the cause. Birt aims to use this platform to raise awareness about MND and advocate for better resources and support systems for affected individuals.

The MNDA plays a crucial role in providing information and support for those diagnosed with MND, but Birt emphasizes the need for greater awareness and understanding of the disease. “I just want to bring awareness to the disease and to the support that is there,” he stated.

As Birt prepares for his upcoming fundraising event, he remains hopeful about the future, despite the uncertainties surrounding his condition. With continued community support and a focus on raising awareness, Birt aspires to help others facing similar challenges.

In conclusion, Seamus Birt's personal battle with motor neurone disease highlights the importance of early diagnosis and community support in managing this life-altering condition. His commitment to raising awareness and funds for the MNDA serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in community and shared experiences.