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Mary Soars Over Sarum

Mary Bates is raising money for The Mel Evans MBE Foundation
In memory of Spencer Bates

Mary’s 15,000ft skydive · 23 May 2026

The Mel Evans MBE Foundation was set up in 2019. The Foundation has three core objectives:- To raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease To raise vitally needed funding for research into effective treatments and an eventual cure for MND To help families who are impacted by MND.

Story

I never imagined I’d be saying this, but I am once again taking on a skydive in memory of my beloved son, Spenny, who sadly passed away from Motor Neurone Disease in his 40s. This time at a mere 82 years old!!!

Watching him go through such a cruel illness was something no parent should ever have to experience, and it has stayed with me every day since.

MND is a devastating disease that takes away so much, not just from those diagnosed but from the families who love them. I wanted to do something, however big or small, to help make a difference — and this is my way of doing that.

I may be 82, but I believe it’s never too late to try and help others. This skydive is my tribute to Spenny and a way of supporting the vital work being done to fight MND and care for those affected.

If you’re able to support me with a donation, I would be incredibly grateful. And if not, simply sharing this page would mean just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping keep Spenny’s memory alive.

With love,

Mary ❤️

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Donation summary

Total
£135.00
+ £30.00 Gift Aid
Online
£135.00
Offline
£0.00

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