On Sunday, September 1, Mark O’Brien, 55, a citizen of both Ireland and the UK, will attempt two Guinness World Records in one day, tackling two swim sprint challenges in two countries to become the record holder for the fastest swims for someone with Motor Neurone Disease.
Mark’s first attempt will be a 50m Freestyle in Luton, UK, at Inspire Luton Sports Village at 8.50am, where he looks to beat a time of 38.92 seconds.
He will then travel to Ireland where his second attempt will be a 100m Freestyle at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin at 4.30pm where he will look to beat a time of one minute 39.88 seconds.
This is not the first time that Mark has challenged himself to such a degree, having previously set the world record for the longest non-stop, unaided open water swim by a person with MND around the same time the previous year, with a distance of 6.8 miles (11km).
Diagnosed with MND in March 2022, Mark was inspired by the likes of Rob Burrow and Alex Gibson to raise awareness and encourage increased funding for MND charities.
Mark’s mission is to make a difference with the time he has left and never give up until his last breath. With his condition deteriorating, Mark is determined to try and still make a difference.
“Having been diagnosed with MND, a terminal illness that affects the brain, muscles, and nerves, leading to respiratory failure, I’ve faced immense challenges,” he said.
“With my family, friends, and support from the MND associations in the UK and Ireland, and the charity Challenging MND, I’ve emerged from the darkest time of my life. My mission now, outside of fundraising for these amazing charities, is to highlight the mental health impact of terminal illness and the positive effects of challenging oneself.
“The training is a whole new world compared to my long distance swim. I definitely underestimated the respiratory deterioration factor. Fortunately, I think – with the help of now three coaches – I can be reasonably optimistic regarding the two record attempts.”
Mark’s family are from near Nenagh and the village of Dolla in north Tipperary, and he has many fond childhood memories of the area.
“Anybody who has been given a terminal diagnosis, you can still make a difference. Whilst our time may be shorter than others, if you can come out of that emotional black hole, you can still do stuff to help others. But also to help yourself as well.
This is not the first time that Mark has challenged himself to such a degree, having previously set the world record for the longest non-stop, unaided open water swim by a person with MND around the same time the previous year, with a distance of 6.8 miles (11km).
“I absolutely underestimated the mental destruction with being diagnosed like that, and now I realise the importance of mental health as well as physical health as well.”
Mark’s friends from Tipperary will be visiting on Sunday, but unfortunately not his Dad, Jim O’Brien, who died a few years ago. “When I was first thinking about this swim, the first thing I thought was ‘Dad would be really proud if I could do this in Ireland’. The Irish leg of the event will be quite emotional.”
Mark will also have family from New Zealand visiting on the day. He has been travelling back and forth to Ireland for training, and his eldest daughter Lauren works in Seal Rescue Ireland in Courtown in Co Wexford.
Mark remembers his “extremely happy” memories of Tipperary, “such a beautiful place,” and says he was lucky to bring his children there as well so they can get to know their Irish heritage.
If the Irish government could do one thing for those with MND, it is to accelerate research for a cure through more centralised funding. “It’s not just about the Irish government, I think the EU as a whole is getting together for main funding for MND. A lot of communities have joined up – I think if everybody could get together and centralise funding for research, there will eventually be a cure for motor neurone disease. But it won’t happen in my lifetime.”
Mark said he’s not sure how much more time he has left. The degenerative illness leaves patients requiring up to 18 hours of sleep per day, but there are other days when he feels more energetic.
“I was first diagnosed on March 17, 2022. The average person dying from MND is within three years of the diagnosis,” he added.
Liane Iles, CEO of Challenging MND, said, “we invite everyone to join us in supporting Mark’s incredible journey. Mark’s determination is a testament to the human spirit, and together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against MND.
“Mr O’Brien hopes his legacy will show his children that even when life seems impossible, perseverance can make the impossible possible, and to never give up.”
Kevin Burn, CEO, Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association said, “we are inspired by Mark and his courage and determination to continue to challenge himself like this – to take on two Guinness World Record attempts in one day is something, but in two different countries in the same day is just incredible.
“We are extremely grateful to Mark for all he is doing for the MND communities in Ireland and the UK not just in terms of fundraising but also awareness – getting people to take notice by doing something truly remarkable. We wish Mark the very best of luck, we’re behind you every step of the way.”
Sharon King, Senior Regional Fundraiser for the MND Association (UK) said: “we are deeply honoured to support Mark once again and are overwhelmed by his remarkable dedication and resilience in facing such a formidable challenge.
“His unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funds is truly inspiring, embodying the relentless spirit needed in the fight against MND. Mark’s efforts are nothing short of amazing, and we are profoundly grateful for his support.”
All funds raised will be equally distributed between The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA), The UK Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), and Challenging MND.
Donations are welcome via his GiveWheel fundraising page, at www.givewheel.com/fundraising/4026/guinness-world-record-attempts