Michelle Miller, 50, was devastated when husband Donald, better known as Donza, 51, was told he had the incurable condition seven years ago.

It causes irreparable damage to the central nervous system and severely affects speech, mobility and even the ability to eat and drink.

The condition has taken its toll on Donald, who is now confined to a wheelchair and suffers limited communication — most of which is now done via an iPad.

It has also had a major impact on his wife of 11 years, who had to give up her job working in mobile phone repairs to become his full-time carer.

The remarkable couple, who have been together for 24 years and who have a daughter and two stepsons, remain upbeat and insist they don’t let MND prevent them leading a fulfilling life — as well as being spurred on to try and help find a cure for the condition.

Michelle said: “It’s like a death sentence — a slow death.

“I’ve been Donald’s full-time carer since August 2013 but it’s always been me who supported him.

“It was getting too much at work as well as he couldn’t get out of bed himself and I was worried if he was okay.

“But since then, there’s been a gradual decline.

“However we are positive people — we’ve always been like that — and I’ve backed him 110 per cent. I will always support him.

“We want awareness to be raised so one day we can get a cure.” The couple still make sure they get out and about almost every day normal and enjoy days out.

Both are heading to Hampden tomorrow to cheer on Donald’s beloved Celtic in the eagerly-anticipated clash with Rangers.

But the couple have also taken heart from the Ibrox club and its former captain Fernando Ricksen, who is also suffering from the condition.

Ricksen’s charity match last Sunday, attended by over 41,000 people, came the day after the Greenock couple hosted their own fundraiser for MND Scotland at the Loreto Club, raising over £1,000.

Michelle said: “Seven years ago I didn’t really know what MND was although I had heard of it before because of Celtic’s Jimmy Johnstone.

“Around about the time he died from MND, Donza was diagnosed.

“We held a fundraising night on Saturday to try and raise awareness. Everything with Fernando Ricksen match has helped as well. Anything to raise the charity’s profile is fantastic.” The couple praised MND Scotland for the support they have given since Donald was diagnosed.

Donald said: “They are very good.

“They need more money to get some sort of cure. They do a lot for the little support they receive.” Donald and Michelle would like to thank DJ David Montgomery, Compston Catering, Annie for the cake, Nicola from Balloon Creations, the Green Oak Bar, and everyone else for their kind donations and attendance on the night.

Michelle said: “A great night was had by all.” The couple is also appealing for help to source a new iPad to help Donald with various things, primarily communication.

If anyone can help, contact the Tele on 558980.