A recent study led by scientists at the University of
Auckland Centre for Brain Research found that New Zealand
has one of the highest rates of motor neurone disease (MND)
in the world, with more than 400 people living with MND at
any given time.
MND is a devastating, rapidly
progressing disease that robs people of everything. People
with MND know how their life will end – trapped inside a
body that no longer works, unable to speak, move and,
eventually, breathe. It is a terrifying fate.
MND
affects people from all communities, ethnicities, and
occupations. At present, there is no truly effective
treatment and no known cure, and the average life expectancy
is two to five years.
In June 2024, MND NZ will again
launch its annual fundraising campaign to raise awareness of
the impact of MND and raise funds towards the charity’s
vital work in advocacy, education, research and support of
people living with MND and their families.
Mark
Leggett, MND NZ’s Interim Chief Executive, says: “When
raising awareness about tough diseases, like MND, there’s
no denying that conversation and connection go a long
way.
Recognising this power of kōrero, we’re
pleased to launch both our iconic Cuppa Tea for MND and the
MND Ice Bucket Challenge in June.
Both these
fundraising initiatives are about sharing stories and
encouraging Kiwis to learn more about the personal, social
and financial challenges that MND brings”.
Motor
Neurone Disease NZ is the only charity focused on improving
quality of life, funding research and campaigning for people
affected by MND in NZ but relies on the generosity of New
Zealanders to do so.
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Leggett adds: “Proceeds from
the MND Action Month campaign will go towards growing
support, information and advocacy to make time count for
those affected today, as well as supporting research for a
future free from MND”.
To get involved in this
year’s fundraising efforts head to
www.mndactionmonth.org.nz.
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