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A family-run East Lothian business has decided to take on a series of fundraising challenges this year in support of MND Scotland, following the loss of their father, Ian Moffat, to motor neuron disease (MND) in November 2025.
Platinum Scotland, founded by Ian’s son Michael Moffat, is a plumbing, heating, mechanical, and electrical company based in Musselburgh.
The company’s directors, staff, and even Michael’s 15-year-old son, Lennon, are taking on events, including the Tough Mudder in June, to raise awareness and vital funds in support of families affected by MND across Scotland.
Michael, 40, recalls the impact of watching his dad’s deterioration following being diagnosed with MND in March 2025. Ian had previously been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, which the family believe masked early symptoms of MND.
Michael said, “They think he had MND for years before we knew. The Parkinson’s hid it. Looking back, there were signs, including his drop foot, his walking getting worse, and his speech changing, but we didn’t know. And honestly, in some way, it was probably a blessing for my parents that we didn’t know.”
Ian’s condition deteriorated quickly. He was diagnosed with MND in March 2025 and died in November of the same year.
Michael said, “Until you’ve seen it firsthand, you’ll never understand how horrific it is. I genuinely don’t think anyone can until they watch someone they love go through it.
“We were taking shifts at night because he couldn’t sleep. My mum was exhausted, and we were lifting him constantly.
“The equipment you need is unbelievable, from hoists, chairs, footstools, suction machines, feeding tube etc. I don’t think anyone knows what’s involved until they’re living it.”
Michael added, “We know how expensive this equipment is. We’ve lived it. If the money we raise helps even one family get what they need, then that’s worth every mile, every run, every challenge.”
Ian grew up in Musselburgh, living first in Edenhall and later in Stoneybank, where Michael and his brothers, Stephen, Shaun, and Jack, were raised.
“He was a quiet man – unless he’d had a drink,” Michael laughed. “He had a dry sense of humour and he loved football.”
Ian also worked alongside Cameron Taylor, now a director at Platinum, long before Cameron joined the business, “My dad was Cameron’s manager years ago. It’s funny how things come back around.”
Cameron describes Platinum Scotland as a ‘family enterprise’. Alongside Michael, brothers Stephen, Shaun, and Jack all play key roles in the company.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Cameron said, “This isn’t a corporate business, it’s the Platinum family. The brothers run it, but the whole team is part of it. Most of the guys have been here six years or more, and everyone knew Ian.”
“When he died, the mood across the whole company changed. Everyone wanted to do something meaningful.”
“For a lot of the young guys, showing support through physical challenges felt like the best way they could help to show they were standing with Michael and the family.”
This year, the company announced MND Scotland as their charity partner. To honour Ian’s memory, the team will be taking on quarterly challenges, including recently completing the Falkirk Wheel Abseil, and in June, Michael, five team members, and his son Lennon will take on Tough Mudder to raise funds and awareness.
Lynne Wiseman, Fundraising Lead for MND Scotland said, “We are incredibly grateful to Michael and the team at Platinum Scotland for their support. Ther fundraising allows us to support families like Michael’s across Scotland affected by MND and help raise important awareness. We wish the team the very best of luck in all of their upcoming challenges.”
Michael said, “The feedback from the staff has been fantastic – everyone is eager to get involved, build a stronger team bond, and contribute to the fight against this horrendous disease.
“My son is 15 and he’s built for running. He’s already dragging me through the training! It’ll be a special thing for us to do together for his grandad.”
MND Scotland would like to thank Michael and the Platinum team for their support.
If you would like to help make time count for families affected by MND and take on a challenge to help raise funds or find out more about becoming a charity partner, please visit: www.mndscotland.org.uk or email: fundraising@mndscotland.org.uk for more information.
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