Climb With Charlie - more events are confirmed at peaks across County Donegal

Grianan Of Aileach

Perhaps the most poignant is the climb at Grianan in Newtowncunningham, being undertaken by the family of the late Paul 'Diddler' Dillon. He lost his battle with MND in September 2019. 

Mr Dillon’s wife Emma is organising the event, inviting people to climb with her to the Inishowen ring fort Grianán Áileach, on April 2.

Speaking on social media, Mrs Dillon said: “The Climb With Charlie campaign caused a lot of debate in my head. 

“Initial thoughts, definitely doing something to show my support but then deep bitterness that I have for those three letters, NMD set in.

“Seeing firsthand the utter devastation that this awful disease brings to those diagnosed and to their families, it is hard to let go of that bitterness. But I also have the best motivator of all in my head, our very own MND angel, Diddler, telling me you can do this, so, for that reason, we are organising on April 2, to Climb With Charlie and also to remember Diddler.

“The climb itself, symbolising the daily struggles all those with MND face. For me to decide to do this, the hardest part of the climb is already done. 

“The location was hard to decide as I don't think there are enough mountains in Donegal to accommodate everyone wishing to show support to this worthy cause, so we have decided, where better than keep it local and walk from our village to the top of Grianán, a place Diddler always loved.

“I will organise a fundraising page with IMNDA and details of that will follow.

“So, for now, I hope whoever can will come out and help us Climb With Charlie and Remember Diddler. Never Forgotten Always Remembered Forever Loved.

“Emma, Lilly, Heidi and Daisy.”