Leitrim schools and families encouraged to read for MS fundraiser

Leitrim schools and families are being urged to embrace the joy of reading this November as part of the annual MS Readathon—one of Ireland’s longest-running charity events.

Backed this year by Meath footballer and clinical psychologist Cillian O’Sullivan, the fundraiser invites children and adults to read as many books as possible between November 1 and December 15, all while raising money to support people living with multiple sclerosis.

O’Sullivan, 31, was diagnosed with MS in late 2023—a “bolt out of the blue” that he says shook his world. Now living in Dublin with his wife Caoimhe, the Royals forward has spoken openly about how therapy helped him navigate the anxiety and fear that came with the diagnosis.

“I would have been in therapy before I had the diagnosis, so I knew the benefit of going back and talking about the feelings; the anxiety, the fear and the shame, and working through those rather than locking them in a room,” he said.

O’Sullivan recalls taking part in the MS Readathon as a child at Gaelscoil na Ríthe in Dunshaughlin, where it sparked his imagination and love of learning. “It opened up a world of wonder,” he said. “And the Readathon brings that out.”

The campaign, now in its 39th year, continues to inspire a love of books among young readers across the country. MS Ireland CEO Ava Battles said the initiative helps fund essential services for over 11,000 people living with the neurological condition nationwide.

“We are looking for schools across Leitrim to sign up for the Readathon and use our support materials to set reading challenges for pupils that will inspire their imaginations and create a positive habit that can last a lifetime,” said Battles.

“But it’s not just schools—families, book clubs, workplaces and community groups of all ages are encouraged to join in and help raise vital funds.”

After receiving his diagnosis, one of the first things Cillian did was look up stories of athletes living with MS. “The power of stories allows us to understand that others have walked the path before us,” he said. “If I can be helpful to anyone in any way by being authentic about it and being open and honest, I want to be.”

“You get messages of support when you share your story. I don’t see any shame or feel any fear about that. We are a country where shame was weaponised quite a lot and we have to address that.”

Families, schools and community groups can register now at www.msreadathon.ie .

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