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Staff at a Caerphilly-based housing association have raised nearly £13,000 in memory of their late friend and colleague.

Ros O’Shea, who worked at United Welsh, passed away in December, having been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in March 2025.

Following her diagnosis, colleagues decided to start raising money for the MND Association – a charity working to improve access to care and research for people affected by the disease.

Staff have since held numerous fundraising events, raising a total of £12,885.55.

One of the activities included a group of brave firewalkers walking across hot coals, raising £1,165.

Some staff members completed five parkruns, totalling a distance of 25k in one day, while employees also completed the Cardiff Half Marathon, Dublin Half Marathon, and Caerphilly 10k.

Other activities included a sponsored swim, Halloween quiz, hair shave, fitness class, bake sales, and a raffle.

Ros’ daughter, Kelly O’Shea, thanked everyone for their fundraising efforts and said: “Ros loved working at United Welsh and was so proud to be a part of an amazing organisation.

“It’s heartwarming to see how much she meant to everyone and how special she was. I hope there will one day be a cure for this devastating disease.”

Richard Shackelford, relationship fundraiser at the MND Association, said: “Raising £13,000 is a tremendous achievement and will make a real difference for people living with MND and their families in Welsh communities, helping them access vital support when they need it most, as well as funding crucial research.

“This partnership shows the strength of compassion and community here in Wales, and we’re incredibly grateful to all the staff and residents who made it possible.”

Richard Mann, group chief executive at United Welsh, said: “Staff have been incredibly enthusiastic in their fundraising for the MND Association this year.

“The efforts across the organisation reflect how much Ros was cherished and valued as a colleague and friend.

“We are proud to have raised a fantastic total for the MND Association, which we hope will make a meaningful difference to their vital work.”