In 2005 the Duo Donna and Joseph McCaul represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest. The brother and sister took to the stage in Ukraine and were the first ever Irish act to take part in a Eurovision Song Contest Semi Final.

Since the contest he has been performing in musicals and singing in events throughout Ireland.

In a recent interview with the Irish newspaper, The Independent, Joe, who is now 25 years old, talked about his reaction when he received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

My world crumbled around me. I was crying and the doctors just left me be.

Gradually he developed symptoms like numbness and tingling in his hands and feet along with a general feeling of being unwell. Last November he woke up and was unable to move his body from the waist downwards. He was taken to a local hospital and then to one, and another, in Dublin.

I was initially diagnosed with Transverse Mylitis, which is an inflammation of the spinal cord. But then there were more tests in St James before I was sent home in December. When I was at home I got a call from my neurologist’s secretary to come back up to St James’ and I was a bit suspicious, because I had already got an appointment for next May. I got into the room and there were three doctors there and my doctor started talking in a general way about MS. I asked straight out – have I got MS – and they said yes

He continued When I got the news nothing made any sense. I couldn’t see a life for myself. When I think MS I only see a wheelchair. I’m still coming to terms with it.

During Christmas spent time in a wheelchair and on crutches.

We wish Joe all the best for the future in his battle with this illness.

Stay tuned to esctoday.com for more news on Ireland and the Eurovision Song Contest.