Irish soprano Catrina Scullion is loved for her powerful and vibrant voice. Her impressive career spans touring with the Celtic Woman choir, performing as a soloist for Anúna, appearing on stage with North Dublin Opera, and working as a concert soloist and recording artist. This Christmas season, however, Catrina is turning her talents toward a deeply personal cause: raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) awareness and support.
Catrina shared, “In November 2021, just after the birth of her third child, my cousin Sinead received the devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease. Unfortunately, it’s a rare and aggressive form of the disease. In just three short years, she now requires round-the-clock care. Despite everything, she remains positive, never complains, and cherishes every moment with her children.”
The diagnosis was a shock to their tight-knit family. “This news hit me hard, especially because we’re the same age. I was expecting my youngest child when she was diagnosed, and as a mother of two small children, I felt a deep connection to her struggle. I felt compelled to do something positive—to raise awareness and funds for MND charities in Sinead’s name. I promised her that I would use my music to achieve this goal.”
To fulfill that promise, Catrina has launched a charity campaign this holiday season titled “Sparkle for Sinead.” The campaign features a special single, a rendition of the empowering ballad “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” along with two live concerts. The first concert will take place in Catrina’s hometown of Ballymena on December 1st at the Ballymena North Business and Recreation Centre, with guest performers Sanctuary Singers under the direction of Loreto McAuley. The second concert will be held in Dublin at St. Mary’s Church, Haddington Road, on December 6th, featuring the St. Andrew’s College Junior Choir conducted by Karen Armitage. Both concerts begin at 7 PM and will be accompanied by Catriona McElhinney-Grimes on piano.
Catrina’s campaign has already garnered significant support, including early backing from radio presenter Jannie Rawlinson of ClassicalXOver4U / Jannie’s Broadcast. Jannie is collaborating with Catrina on additional fundraising initiatives, including a twilight walk up Moel Famau on December 28th.
Supporters can contribute directly through the campaign’s GoFundMe page and receive the new single as a thank-you. Tickets for the concerts can be purchased at the following links:
- December 1st: Sparkle for Sinead – Ballymena Concert
- December 6th: Sparkle for Sinead – Dublin Concert
For international supporters, an online viewing of the Dublin concert will be available via St. Mary’s Church webcam. “We want to ensure people from abroad can join us online. We just ask for a small donation in lieu of a ticket,” Catrina explained. All profits from the campaign will be divided between the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA) in Dublin and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) in Northern Ireland.
We encourage everyone to support this remarkable cause and send our warmest wishes to Sinead and her family.
Donate to the Sparkle for Sinead GoFundMe
