Carrickfergus author Sam Young presents £10,000 to MS Research Hub at QUB
Carrickfergus author Sam Young has presented £10,000 to the MS Research Hub at Queen’s University Belfast.
The funds were raised from the proceeds of Sam’s debut novel, ‘Dancehall Days’.
The book, along with its recent follow up The Cruellest Month are inspired by recollections from Sam’s late mother about her life growing up in post-war Omagh.
The 69 year-old began his creative writing journey at the age of 65 following his retirement from a career in financial services.
In September 2019, Sam’s mother passed away and in the same week his wife, Mae, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
Although he had already decided to commit the stories to paper, Sam pledged to donate any royalties from the books to the Queen’s research hub.
The local author said being able to hand over such a substantial donation was a “very proud day” for himself and Mae.
Meanwhile, his work has won fans around the world, with books sold in Canada, Australia, the USA, and New Zealand.
Feedback for The Cruellest Month has been very positive, with readers describing it as “heart-breaking”, a “beautifully crafted book”, and “very poignant”.
The third book in the trilogy is currently in progress, with Sam aiming to publish it in late summer 2026.
About Multiple Sclerosis
Over 5,300 people live with MS in Northern Ireland, according to the MS Society.
The condition affects the brain and spinal cord, impacting how people move, think and feel. Symptoms are different for everyone, but can include fatigue, pain, vision problems and mobility issues.
Most people are diagnosed in their 30s or 40s, but it can affect people of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and genders.