Remembering Adrian Walsh and the Founding Members of Muscular Dystrophy Ireland

Today marks one month since the passing of Adrian Walsh, the last surviving founding member of Muscular Dystrophy Ireland, who died on 26th March 2026.

On this month's mind, we pause to remember Adrian and to honour the extraordinary life he gave in service to others. His vision helped bring MDI into being, and his influence has touched the lives of countless families across Ireland in the decades since.

The Muscular Dystrophy Society of Ireland (now Muscular Dystrophy Ireland) was founded in Mountbellew, Co. Galway, in 1972. Its founding members were Matt O’Connell, Adrian Walsh, and Kathleen Healy.

At the time, Matt O’Connell was serving as a bank manager in Mountbellew and became Chairman of the newly formed society. Adrian Walsh, then Assistant Bank Manager, took on the role of Treasurer, while Kathleen Healy also played a key role as an officer of the organisation.

The foundation of the society arose from a deeply personal need. Matt’s young son, Barry, had been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy. Faced with very limited awareness of the condition and a lack of supports for families, Matt and his fellow founders were driven to create a network that could offer both practical assistance and solidarity to others facing similar challenges.

In those early years, the organisation operated on a small, local scale, sustained by the dedication and commitment of its founders. Fundraising was a constant challenge. As Treasurer, Adrian was central to these efforts, managing a monthly fundraising initiative similar to bingo. Entries would be submitted by post and carefully checked by Adrian, alongside his wife and young family, to identify winners. When a prize was won, Adrian personally ensured that a cheque was issued and sent – a reflection of the hands-on, community-driven spirit that defined the organisation in its infancy.

Adrian Walsh