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Ben-Lannie
Early in 2011 my father was diagnosed as being terminally ill with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). For those unaware, MND is a muscle wasting disease, slowly shutting down ones strength and mobility, to a point where 24hr care is required.
This diagnosis has devastated our family, and each of us has dealt with it in our own way. Yet, however grave the news, as a family (and with amazing friends) we still stand together strong.
In coming to terms with the disease I have come to realise that the support offered must extend well beyond the direct scope of my family. I wish to tackle the disease head on...Primarily I intend to financially support the hundreds of families in the UK already living with the disease who are struggling to cope in providing basic care and living aids for their loved ones. Secondly, it is my hope that a cure for such a terrible disease can be developed, so that in the future, other families will not be befallen the same fate as mine.
It is for this reason I have decided to start by conducting a series of charity events over 2012 for the MND Association. This will include walking ‘3 peaks’ in 24hrs, a cycle challenge, and a charity ball (to name but a few at the present time!) However this money raised will contribute to the minimum of £3500 required in sponsorship for me to trek to Everest Base Camp in 2013, walking a total of 120km to an altitude of over 5500m. At present Everest is the number one objective, however following this, other endurance events including Kilimanjaro is in the pipeline.
Already, word of my intent has spread like wildfire thanks to the wonderful world of Facebook (and my mum!) and I am aware that many people are conducting their own feats and events in aid of raising money to sponsor my attempt at Everest.
The immediate target is a minimum of £3500, however those who know me, know that I am not one for ‘minimum’ and intend to take the fundraising as far as possible. I therefore appeal to anyone wishing to contribute to my cause that they click on the link below and donate via ‘Just Giving’. Every penny counts, and each and every penny raised is met with the upmost of gratitude from not only me but also my family.
As an indication of where your money is going, here are some examples of what your money achieves:
· £15 buys an adapted cutlery set. For someone with MND it’s more than just a cutlery set, it’s the dignity of being able to feed yourself.
· £50 funds laboratory equipment for a days vital research into finding out the causes of MND.
· £150 operates the MND Connect support and information line for half a day – having someone to talk to really can make a world of difference.
· £500 funds the installation of a stair lift – anything that can extend independence and allow someone to stay in their own home is so important.
· £1,000 buys a riser recliner armchair to help maintain a level of mobility for those who can no longer stand unaided.
· £3,000 funds an MND expert researcher for one month and keeps the hope of a cure alive.
Best wishes to you all,
Ben Lannie
