In 2021 the John Port School, Derby basketball team from the early 1970’s reformed and walked (with friends and family) to raise a substantial amount of money for the MND Association. This was because our old team captain, Martin Kelly was diagnosed with MND in 2017. Four years on we have decided to dust off the hiking boots and do it again. This time being joined by some more old school friends from the class of 76/77.

From 24th -28th September 2025 we will be walking the length of the River Derwent, from near its source in the upper Peak District to its end, where it flows into the River Trent, south of Derby. The 5 day hike will be a challenge for our 67 year old bones and various dodgy hearts and ageing joints. Once again we will be self funding the overnight and other costs, to ensure that every pound donated goes to the MNDA.

There is a 1 in 300 chance of contracting this cruel and untreatable disease in your lifetime, with life expectancy generally between 2 and 5 years. Two of our old school year have had MND. Martin is defying these odds, reaching 8 years since his diagnosis. Unfortunately our other school friend, Andrew Bucklow, sadly passed away in 2021,barely 6 months after diagnosis.

Thanks to fundraising, great strides have been made over recent years in improving the awareness and understanding of MND, a previously overlooked disease. Now treatment includes a drug that can slow down the progress of the disease in the 2% of cases caused by mutation of the SOD1 gene. This is a promising step. These are exciting times and we want to help the MNDA keep up this momentum and ultimately to find a cure.

Your support will be greatly appreciated to help to continue the progress.

Please note- all funds raised go directly to the MNDA national fund, with the exception of funds raised by the Mills family which goes to the MNDA Gloucestershire Branch.

Thank you for visiting my JustGiving page supporting the MND Association. The MND Association focus on improving access to care, research and campaigning for those people living with or affected by MND in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. By sponsoring me your money will help people affected by Motor Neurone Disease. Once you donate, JustGiving will send your money directly to the MND Association. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure, your details are safe - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Thank you again