Hurling legend raises vital funds for amyloidosis research

Irish GAA legend Michael Bond has raised over £13,000 for the Royal Free Charity

An animated sports coach wearing a white cap and a Carroll Meats-branded jacket passionately gestures on the sidelines during a game, pointing in the direction of the action.
Retired GAA hurling manager Michael Bond, who is living with amyloidosis, organised a charity golf event which was held in July at the Loughrea Golf Club in County Galway. Bond is one of many in Ireland now speaking about amyloidosis to further research into this rare disease. 

An Ardrahan local and notable figure in the hurling community, Bond played at club and inter-county levels before taking up management roles, leading Offaly to victory in the All-Ireland final against Kilkenny at Croke Park in 1998. 

Offaly manager Michael Bond during the Guinness All-Ireland Hurling Senior Championship semi-final match between Cork and Offaly at Croke Park in Dublin. Credit: Ray McManus; Sportsfile 

Michael’s daughter, Irene Bond, said Dad’s diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis in October 2021 was a pivotal moment for us. We suspect he had been living with the condition for years, as his symptoms went undetected for so long. 

The clarity we gained after his first appointment at the Royal Free Hospital was crucial. It not only helped us understand the disease better but also ensured he received the treatment he needed back home in Galway, where chemotherapy has greatly improved his quality of life.

Two women, one with a baby, holding a large display cheque with £13,000 written out to the Royal Free Charity.
Michael’s daughter Michelle and granddaughter Fiadh (right) pictured with Lara from our fundraising team when they visited us in September 

What has really meant the world to him is the way people began to reach out once he started raising awareness. Families in Ireland, often struggling with their own journeys, connected with him. 

Knowing that more people are talking about amyloidosis, especially in a country without a major national hub for the disease, has been incredibly rewarding for him. 

The support from the National Amyloidosis Centre at the Royal Free Hospital has been invaluable, especially with long waiting lists for rare diseases in Ireland. We are so grateful for everything they have done.”

A group of golfers standing each side of a sign that reads "Champagne Golf Classic, Loughrea Golf Club in aid of Amyloidosis Research and Awareness - Monday 8th July  - Sunday 14th July."
Michael Bond in attendance with his family at the Champagne Golf Classic at Loughrea Golf Club. Credit: Michael Bond 

The Champagne Gold Classic golf event brought together Galway locals and those from neighbouring counties.

Participants enjoyed the weeklong golf tournament, with a range of prizes up for grabs, kindly provided by Michael and his family. The winning team collected tickets to this year’s All-Ireland hurling final where Clare met Cork to claim their fifth All-Ireland title.

With a staggering 90 teams participating, the event was a resounding success. Attendees were encouraged to contribute through donations and sponsorships, ensuring the National Amyloidosis Centre can further its critical research.

Michael’s dedication to this cause is truly inspiring,” said Professor Julian Gillmore, research lead at the National Amyloidosis Centre. His efforts not only raise essential funds for amyloidosis research but also shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by those diagnosed with amyloidosis. We are grateful for his commitment and the support from everyone involved in the Champagne Golf Classic.”

The funds raised will support advancements in treatment and care for patients facing this complex condition. The National Amyloidosis Centre is the UK’s only specialist centre for the treatment and research of amyloidosis, providing care and expertise to patients facing this rare condition.

About amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a rare, often fatal disease, caused by accumulation of protein fibres, amyloid, in the body.

The National Amyloidosis Centre, the UK’s specialist centre for amyloidosis treatment and research, is based at the Royal Free Hospital. The Royal Free Charity is the only UK charity directly supporting the centre.