Three cousins raise £1,300 for families living with MND.

A New Year’s Day sea dip on the Ayrshire coast has raised more than £1,300 for families affected by motor neurone disease, after three cousins took part in a polar plunge in freezing conditions.

Fourteen-year-old Sophia McDonald was joined by Councillor Nairn Angus-McDonald and Aaran McDonald as they ran into the icy sea to support the work of MND Scotland. The challenge formed part of a wider fundraising effort to highlight the impact of MND and the importance of support services for those living with the condition and their carers.

Despite the harsh winter temperatures, the cousins said the experience strengthened their family bond and gave them a shared sense of purpose at the start of the year.

Sophia said the challenge was intimidating at first but quickly became a moment she would remember. “I was really nervous before going in because it was so cold, but once we did it together, it felt amazing. Knowing it was helping people with MND made it all worth it. I’m really proud of what we did as a family.”

Councillor Nairn Angus-McDonald said the fundraiser reflected issues he encounters through his public role supporting carers across North Ayrshire.

“I’ve worked with families who are caring for someone with MND, and I’ve seen how life-changing and heartbreaking it can be. Doing this with my cousins was a reminder of how important family support is, and why charities like MND Scotland matter so much.”

For Aaran McDonald, who works with MND Scotland, the plunge had a personal significance linked to his professional experience supporting people affected by the disease.

“I see firsthand the strength of people living with MND and their families, and how vital the support MND Scotland provides is. Taking part in this with my cousins made it deeply personal, it wasn’t just a plunge, it was a statement of support.”

The family said they were grateful for the backing they received from friends, relatives and local supporters, which helped them exceed their fundraising target and turn a cold winter tradition into a meaningful show of support for families living with MND.