‘Adventure was in my blood and I always wanted more’: kayaker Adrian Harkin on his motor neurone disease diagnosis
In August 2022, the Donegal-based adventurer was diagnosed with MND, the same illness that killed his father. As he prepares for a final challenge to raise money, his friend Kathy Donaghy talks to Adrian and his loved ones about his cruel diagnosis and rapid deterioration, his love of the sea and never giving up
Adrian Harkin. Photo: Lorcan Doherty
This is not a story I want to tell. I baulk at the writing of it, rail against the words as they land one at a time. But my friend Adrian Harkin has asked me to share some of his adventures and the last undertaking of his life — to raise money for motor neurone disease (MND) research so that others might someday benefit and not suffer as he has.
Adrian, who is 54, lives on the Inishowen Peninsula in Co Donegal and was diagnosed with MND in August 2022. What started with a quiver in his right arm and a slurring of his speech immediately gave him cause for concern. His father, who died nearly a decade ago, had MND. Adrian’s worst fears were confirmed after months of tests and waiting for answers.
Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel
Stay up to date with all the latest news
