What is MND
Find support
I have MND
I am supporting someone
Get involved
Research
About MND Scotland
The magnificent group took part in ‘Jinky’s Journey’, a joint initiative from Celtic FC Foundation and MND Scotland to mark the 20th anniversary of the sad passing of Celtic legend, Jimmy Johnstone to motor neuron disease (MND).
The event consisted of a seven-mile sponsored walk – a nod to the shirt number he proudly wore for the Hoops – from Jimmy Johnstone’s statue in his Memorial Garden in Viewpark to the Jinky statue at the top of The Celtic Way.
Supporters of both charities came together on the day, raising an outstanding net total in excess of £20,000 (with fundraising still ongoing) and proceeds will be split equally between the two organisations. You can still get behind their efforts HERE.
The group began their walk at 10am and were joined along the route by Jimmy’s son, James Johnstone, and other members of his family, as they headed to the finish line at Celtic Park.
The group’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed, as passers-by offered encouragement with cheers and amazing support.
The group finished by walking up The Celtic Way towards Jinky’s statue, where they were met by friends and family, along with Jimmy’s wife, Agnes who kindly joined us to thank everyone for taking part.
Celtic FC Foundation’s Head of Foundation, Jane Maguire, said: “It was an honour for us to work with MND Scotland to pay tribute to Jimmy in such a beautiful way. He was our Greatest Ever Celt – as voted for by the supporters – a Lisbon Lion, a phenomenal character and a legend of the very highest order.
“It was fitting to set off from the place he grew up and end at his spiritual home and it was wonderful that the supporters came out in great numbers to pay tribute to one of our own.
“We owe so much to everyone who made the event possible including MND Scotland, CS Luxury Transfer Ltd, Tommy O’Connell, St Columba’s Church and, of course, all of the wonderful participants and those who supported them.
“Funds raised will make a huge difference to so many lives through our Lions Lunch Breaks, which provide support to those living with dementia and their families and carers.”
Dr Jane Haley MBE, Director of Research and Interim CEO of MND Scotland, said: “MND Scotland is thrilled to partner with Celtic FC Foundation on ‘Jinky’s Journey’. For 45 years, MND Scotland has been here for people affected by motor neuron disease (MND), providing support and funding MND research.
“MND is a brutal disease which impacted Jimmy and the Johnstone family. Around 480 people currently have MND in Scotland. We’d like to thank the Johnstone family – Jinky’s wife Agnes, his son James and all their family – for allowing us to share their story.
“We are very grateful to everyone who supported ‘Jinky’s Journey’ – supporters, walkers, volunteers and those who donated – you are making a real difference towards our vision of a world without motor neuron disease.”
Sign up
for newsletter
Get the latest news and events straight to your inbox.
You can help create a world without MND
Please consider donating to help make time count for people affected by MND.
