Inspirational winner’s efforts will help others

A FATHER of four who raised £250,000 for a Multiple Sclerosis centre despite suffering from the disease himself is the latest Evening Post/First Gold Star Award winner.

Shaun McCarthy, 50, was diagnosed with the degenerative condition 25 years ago and is now in a wheelchair.

He had to give up his job as an engineer for a Spanish company, which involved regularly flying to Europe.

But he hasn’t let the disease stop him from helping others, and in 2007 he was made the fund raising manager for the BrAMS appeal at Frenchay Hospital.

The Bristol and Avon Multiple Sclerosis Centre opened last January after 10 years on the drawing board, thanks in part to Mr McCarthy’s efforts.

He has organised and taken part in marathons, London to Bristol walks and wheelchair pushes, raffles and auctions.

The centre now provides therapies for people with the neurological condition, with research carried out to help future treatment.

Mr McCarthy, of Bedminster Down, said: “I had to give up work but I just wanted to do something, I wanted to be busy.

“I’ve organised events, given talks to clubs like Rotary and now the centre is up and running.

“I have been in myself for treatment after having a relapse recently.

“For the first six or seven years it wasn’t too bad, I lost sight in my left eye and was a bit tired.

“After that I had difficulties with my left leg, then right arm, then right leg.

“It can affect you in a whole number of ways because it affects the brain.

“I do miss my job but at least I’m doing something worth while.”

Mr McCarthy is married to Alison, 47, who helps him raise money as well as providing full-time care for her husband.

They have four children, Michael, 25, Emily, 23, Rob, 22 and Jack, 16.

The father-of-four reads the

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Mr McCarthy was nominated by his sister-in-law Lesley McCarthy.

She said: “I have known Shaun for over 40 years and throughout the time that he was been diagnosed with MS he has worked tirelessly.

“Through his contribution and dedication he has made a tremendous impact to others.

“I am very proud to call him my brother-in-law and it is an honour for me to be a part of his life and family.”

Post deputy editor Rob Stokes said: “We are delighted to make Shaun our latest Gold Star winner.

“To cope with Multiple Sclerosis would be enough or most people. But to make such efforts to help others who are also suffering and to do it for so many years is nothing short of remarkable.”

First Bristol Somerset and Avon managing director Tony McNiff said: “Shaun is an inspiration, raising a significant sum of money for a very worthwhile cause.

“Having raised £250,000 for the local MS centre, the impact of Shaun’s hard work and dedication will be felt far and wide, by people all across Bristol, and for that reason he is a very deserving Gold Star winner. Well done Shaun.”