Deborah Cuddihy – Living with MS, Writing for Children and the MS Readathon

In this episode of the Living with MS Podcast, we are joined by Deborah Cuddihy, an Irish primary school teacher, children’s author and MS Readathon 2026 Ambassador, who has been living in Dubai since 2016.

Originally from Mullinahone, County Tipperary, Deborah was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in 2011. She shares her experience of diagnosis, the challenges of living with an often invisible condition and how she balances managing MS with her career as a teacher.

Deborah Cuddihy holding her children's book Willow’s Mum Has MS

Deborah is also the author of Willow’s Mum Has MS, a children’s book inspired by her own experiences of living with the condition. The book helps children understand MS in an age-appropriate and reassuring way, exploring symptoms such as fatigue, changes in energy levels and the emotions children may experience when a parent or family member has MS.

As one of MS Ireland’s 2026 MS Readathon Ambassadors, Deborah also discusses her love of reading, the importance of encouraging children to pick up a book and how the MS Readathon helps raise awareness and vital funds to support people living with MS across Ireland.

Join us for a conversation about living with MS, the power of storytelling, education and helping the next generation better understand multiple sclerosis.

Listen to the full episode of the Living with MS Podcast featuring Deborah Cuddihy

Find out more about the MS Readathon and register at: https://www.msreadathon.ie/

Top