Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...

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Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
mnd matters
VOLUME 6, ISSUE 1. FEBRUARY - MARCH 2018

 Until there is a cure, there is care.

  2018 Education and                           Caring for the Carer
   Support Program                                    pg 10
       pg 7- 11            Talking about MND
                               to children
                                 pg 5-6

                                           www.mndawa.asn.au
Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
                                             From the Executive Officer                    2
                                             Shed Light on the Matter                      3-4
                                             - International Alliance Meetings
                                             - Ross Whiteman, OAM
                                             MND Advisors Corner                           5-6

    4                                        Education and Support Program
                                             Christmas Function
                                                                                           7 - 11
                                                                                           12
                                             MNDAWA Events                                 13
                                             Get Involved                                  14
                                             Community Fundraising                         15 - 17
                                             Change 4 Change                               18
                                             In Loving Memory                              19 - 20
                                             Notices                                       21
                                             Calendar of Events                            22
    12
                                             COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT
                                             Chairperson: Karen Smart
                                             Vice-Chairperson: Samar Aoun
                                             Treasurer: Helen Kraus
                                             Secretary: Jan Taylor
                                             Member: Lay Kho
                                             Member: Chau Huynh

    16                                       Member: Scott Ellwood
                                             Member: Anthony Akkari

                                             HONORARY POSITIONS
            MND Matters                      Hon. Solicitor: Mr Peter Murray
           Volume 6 Issue 1                  Hon. Accountant: Mr Tony Silipo

              February -                     PATRONS
             March 2018                      Narelda Jacobs
                                             Keith Potger, AO
                                             Kim Hughes

     MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE                   STAFF
        ASSOCIATION OF                       Executive Officer: Andrew Hirst
                                             Fundraising & Events Manager: Cara Ilsley
       WESTERN AUSTRALIA                     Education & Support Coordinator: Lisa Shields
         Centre for Neurological Support     MND Advisors: Joan Ellis, Sara Duque, Joanne Borrelli,
        The Niche - Suite B/11 Aberdare Rd   Leanne Bodley
                Nedlands WA 6009             MND Community Nurse: Lynne Lomax
              Phone: (08) 6457 7355          Accountant: Ling Lee
               Fax: (08) 6457 7332           Accounts Receivable & Administration Officer: Kim Rolls,
          Email: admin@mndawa.asn.au         Anne King
                                             Administration Assistant: Michelle Henderson

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Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Welcome                                                         Until there
     Andrew Hirst                                               is a cure,
                                                             there is care.
     Executive Officer
                                                        Some highlights of the
                                                        January - February 2018 issue:

                                                        This is a jam packed edition of MND Matters
                                                        with all the information you need on our new
                                                        Education and Support Groups Program and
                                                        Events for 2018. Lisa Shields, our Education
                                                        and Support Coordinator surveyed our clients
                                                        and their carers late last year to see how we
                                                        can best meet the needs of our families and
                                                        ensure we tailor the events and support groups
                                                        to match these needs. Thank you to everyone
                                                        who participated in the survey - your voice helps
                                                        us support you. As a result, this year will see
                                                        the introduction of new social support groups
Hello everyone,                                         to make it easier to attend and meet people
                                                        in your local area. We are also introducing
Let me introduce myself. I am Andrew Hirst and as I     the “Out of your Mind” mindfulness training
pen this note I have just completed my first week as    to provide carers with the tools to develop
the Executive Officer of MNDAWA. A big thank you to     resilience while facing the demands of caring
the Committee in selecting me and to the staff at the   for someone living with a terminal illness. Lisa
MNDAWA office for being so welcoming.                   has put together a comprehensive overview of
                                                        all the programs on pages 7 -11.
A brief overview of myself; I originally trained as
Registered Nurse in the UK and emigrated to             There are plenty of ‘Save the Dates’ to mark
Australia in 1986. I have worked in and around          down in your diaries for 2018, with our first
healthcare my entire career. Most recently I have       fundraising event of the year, MNDAWA Dive
been working for St John Ambulance WA based out         for Dollars, on Sunday 18th March and the
of Kalgoorlie before moving to St John’s Perth head     Walk to d’Feet MND on Sunday 6th May. We
office in Belmont just over 2 years ago.                are always overwhelmed by the generosity
                                                        and goodwill we receive from the community
I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible    and held a Christmas cocktail function to
over the coming months so look out for the bald man     acknowledge all those who have supported the
with the funny accent at many of our community          MND community in 2017. The evening was well
events and if you are near the office drop in to say    enjoyed by all those who attended at the Mt
hello and have a cuppa.                                 Lawley Golf Club on Tuesday 12th December
                                                        with photos on page 12.
Kind regards,
                                                        We congratulate Mr Ross Whiteman, OAM
                                                        in recognition of being awarded an Order of
                                                        Australia Medal for his service to people living
                                                        with Motor Neurone Disease. An outstanding
                                                        accomplishment.

Andrew Hirst                                            Enjoy the edition.

                                                                                                        2
Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Shed Light on the Matter
    The International ALS/MND
    Meetings

    Each year in December the MND Association of           video was created welcoming members and
    England, Wales, and Northern Ireland organise, in      delegates to the meeting. This can be viewed
    partnership with the International Alliance of ALS/    online here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_
    MND Associations, the International ALS/MND            continue=11&v=cgGDD8Br7N8.
    meetings. This year the meetings were held in
    Boston, USA from 4 – 9 December in conjunction         The following overview has been extracted from
    with host Alliance member ALS TDI and ALS Hope.        MND Australia, Overview of International ALS/
                                                           MND Meetings written by Carol Birks, CEO - MND
    Experts from research and medical communities          Australia. For more information on each of the
    as well as ALS/MND associations and people living      individual meetings and to read the full report visit:
                                                           https://www.mndaust.asn.au/News-and-media/
    with ALS/MND come together each year to share
                                                           Overview-of-International-ALS-MND-Meetings.aspx
    new understandings about ALS/MND. The key to
    defeating MND lies in fostering strong understanding
    of the disease as rapidly as possible. This was the
                                                           The ALS/MND International Alliance’s founding
    MND Association’s rationale behind the creation of
                                                           mission is:
    the International Symposium on ALS/MND.

    Over the 5 days the meetings included an
    International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations              “Provide an international
    annual meeting, an Ask the Experts session, and an        community for ALS/MND
    Allied Professionals Forum, concluding in the ALS/
    MND International Symposium. This year attracted       associations from around the world
    a record breaking 1,640 delegates from around the       all united in the worldwide fight
    world - 25 countries across six continents.
                                                                  against ALS/MND”
    This year marked the 25th Anniversary of the
    establishment of the ALS/MND International
    Alliance and in recognition of this a celebratory

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Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Shed Light on the Matter
Mr Ross Whiteman, OAM
Order of Australia Medal

                                                           For service to people
                                                                   with
                                                             Motor Neurone
                                                                 Disease

                                                        people living with MND in Western Australia.

                                                        Ross has been a leader in the community under
                                                        many banners, including the former CEO of Ray
                                                        White Western Australia. Ray White are platinum
                                                        sponsors of the Association to this day and continue
                                                        to raise much needed funds to support people living
                                                        with MND.

                                                        A very worthy recognition of the selfless work, time
It is with great honour we congratulate Mr Ross
                                                        and service Ross has given to people living MND.
Whiteman, OAM for being awarded with an Order of
Australia Medal on 26th January 2018.
                                                        From the Committee of Management, team and
                                                        MND Community we congratulate Ross for this
Ross was awarded the medal in recognition for his
                                                        outstanding recognition. We are extremely proud of
service to people living with Motor Neurone Disease
                                                        your accomplishment.
(MND). The Order of Australia is an order of chivalry
established on 14 February 1975 by Elizabeth II,
Queen of Australia, to recognise Australian citizens
and other persons for achievement or meritorious          “A very worthy recognition of the
service.
                                                           selfless work, time and service
Ross led the Motor Neurone Disease Association             Ross has given to people living
of Western Australia as Chairperson for 14 years
following the passing of his wife, Ann Winifred,
                                                           with Motor Neurone Disease”
from MND in 2002. During this time he guided the
Association from strength to strength and initiated
significant advancement in the services provided to

                                                                                                          4
Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
from the mnd advisors
                                                                 The MND Advisors Corner is written by one of
                                                                 our four MND Advisors. MND Advisors, through
                                                                 the family support service, offer invaluable
                                                                 expert guidance and emotional support to those
                                                                 diagnosed with MND and their families. The
                                                                 column provides you with information on services,
                                                                 equipment, facilities, the MND clinics and other
                                                                 resources to keep you informed. Should you want
                                                                 further information on any of the following please
                                                                 do not hesitate to contact the office on 6457 7355
                                                                 or email admin@mndawa.asn.au.
                                                                 Our Advisors photographed from left to right;
                                                                 Leanne Bodley, Joan Ellis, Sara Duque and Jo
                                                                 Borrelli.

      Talking about Motor Neurone Disease
                  with Children
    There is no easy way to inform your children that you         MNDAWA has some very useful information
    have been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.               regarding this difficult issue and provides ideas that
    It is an extremely difficult conversation to have and         may help with information sharing and managing the
    one that needs consideration prior to broaching               situation on a day to day basis.
    the subject. When and how to tell your children is a
    question we often get asked….and one we always                •   Let your children know how they can help,
    struggle to answer, as there is no ‘right way’.                   that allows them to feel part of your life;

    How you tell your children is a very personal                 •   It’s important to have an outside focus and
    decision and each family will have their own way                  not let MND dominate your life;
    of dealing with it. There are a few thoughts that will
    be shared throughout this article that will hopefully         •   Everyone will experience grief, let your
    assist you with your conversation or provide some                 children go through the process. Shutting it
    conversational tools with which to work with.                     down will only prolong the grief and not allow
                                                                      them to ‘walk beside you’….
    It has been said that if you can arrange for your
    doctor to share the information with your children it         A couple of other great ideas when it comes to trying
    takes the pressure off you and allows you to be there         to read your children’s responses are:
    to comfort and support your children. If, however,
    that is not possible it is best to tell them in a location    •   Make an ‘Emotion Thermometer’ and put it
    where they don’t feel confronted; somewhere that                  on the fridge. Put phrases on it like; ‘ask me
    allows you to have a ‘side by side’ conversation,                 what’s wrong’, ‘I need a hug,’ ‘please don’t
    walking on the beach or in a park.                                ask me how I feel’ etc. A fridge magnet can
                                                                      be used to point to the ‘feelings of the day’.
    Some parents find it useful to broach the subject by              This is a non-confrontational way for kids to
    finding out firstly what their children already know              communicate their feelings, allowing you to
    about MND. For example you could say, ‘what do                    address them appropriately.
    you understand about Mum’s legs getting tired?’
    Then discuss any essential information they don’t             •   Another easy way for kids to get their feeling
    already know. Ensure you check in on how they are                 across is to have a chart on their bedroom
    feeling, give them a hug and reinforce how important              door with sayings such as…. ‘I need a hug
    it is to talk about feelings.                                     today’; ‘I need a bit of space today’; or ‘Great
                                                                      day! Let’s do something fun!’

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Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
One psychologist recommended watching Australian           •   ‘All For Kids’ – Information about MND for
Story as a nice family thing to do. It provides                young children, adolescents and parents –
an opportunity for kids to see how other people                Canadian ALS Association www.als.ca/allforkids
cope in difficult situations and manage adverse
circumstances. It can also provide an opportunity to       •   www.kidshealth.org/kid Lou Gehrig’s
discuss tough circumstances that other people are              Disease (ALS) Nemours Foundation – from
facing and address how you as a family are coping              America
with your situation.
                                                           •   Real Stories from people living with
Trying to stay positive will always benefit yourself and       MND www.mndassociation.org/life_with_mnd/
your family. If you are having a hard time, reach out          experiences_of_MND
to your MND Advisor. They are always there to listen
and support you regardless of the situation and are
also able to provide you with other resources.
                                                           Feelings of the Day Board...
Someone once stated;
                                                               ‘Please        ‘I need a
 “MND doesn’t stop bad                                                  don’t a              hug’
 things happening - but it                                               I feel ’sk me how
doesn’t stop us doing good                                 ‘Ask me what
          things!”                                            is wrong’               s p a c e
                                                                           b i t o f
If you would like to read more, here are some useful
                                                                  e e d a           ’
links:
                                                             ‘I n        t o d  a y
•   ‘When Someone Special has Motor
    Neurone Disease’ - from the MND Association
    of Victoria, (About MND, Information for Kids).             ‘Great day! Lets do
    www.mnd.asn.au
                                                                    something fun!’
                                                                                                            6
Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Education and Support
                                          MNDAWA is committed to raising awareness and delivering
                                          information about MND to people living with MND, their families,
                                          allied health professionals and the wider community. MNDAWA
                                          has developed many different programs, workshops, information
                                          evenings, and presentations which are delivered on an ‘as needs’
                                          and ‘requested’ basis.

                                          We recognise that some of our sessions can be confronting and
                                          upsetting, so in 2018 we are partnering with Carers WA to ensure
                                          we are supporting our MND clients, carers, family and friends.
                                          Specialist counsellors will be in attendance and available long
                                          term to assist you throughout your journeys.

                                           - LISA SHIELDS, Education and Support Coordinator

      Supporting Your                                            How do we cater
          Journey                                                 for different
    The Motor Neurone Disease Association of Western                 needs?
    Australia Inc. (MNDAWA) organises a range of              We try to offer flexibility to suit as many of our clients,
    different support groups and events throughout the        carers, families and friends. We understand people
    year. Some are monthly gatherings and others are          have work and family commitments beyond dealing
    bi-annual or annual events. MNDAWA’s support              with MND.
    groups and events enable people living with MND
    and their families to feel connected, guided and          That is why MNDAWA offer events on weekdays
    supported through their journey with MND. The             and weekends, as well as during the day and some
    different groups and events are listed on the following   evening sessions. Hopefully this range of options
    pages. Please note that some of the monthly               enables our MND families to participate, meet new
    functions are planned on week-ends occasionally           people, benefit from the wonderful support of others
    and dates are advertised well in advance. For more        on the same journey while learning more about the
    information please contact the office on 6457 7355        disease.
    or email admin@mndawa.asn.au
                                                              This year we will be establishing ‘social groups’ in a
                                                              number of areas around the metropolitan area. It is
                                                              hoped that once established, these groups will offer
                                                              another avenue of support and connection right on
                                                              your doorsteps.

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Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Group Programs 2018
    Support Groups                                            Support Groups
              Get Togethers                                            Carers Lunches
Get Together’s are a wonderful opportunity for those      This Carers only support group provides an
living with MND and their loved ones to meet in a         opportunity for carers (and family and friends helping
relaxed social environment. This is an opportunity        to care for someone living with MND) to meet and
to receive and share information and support with
others. Due to recent survey results indicating a         share their experiences, stories and advice; whilst
preference for additional Pamper Days, we will only       being supported by the Association. We have four
be hosting two such functions in 2018.                    lunches planned for the year:

    January 21st (Sunday) at Kings Park                                     2018 Dates:
              from 11.30am                                                 20th February:
Please bring picnic rugs or chairs and enjoy our
simple barbeque in the sunshine on the lawn area in              The Niche (Passmore Room) 11.30am
front of Zamia Café.
                                                                              17th April:
December 11th at The Niche, from 11.00am                     Caffissimo @ WA Maritime Museum 11.30am
 Will be our Christmas Luncheon and Secret Santa                    Including a tour of the museum

  Social Support Groups - NEW                                                 17th July:
In response to the client/carer survey we will be         Sandalford Caversham Estate Restaurant 11.30am -
coordinating with you all to establish smaller ‘support                 Including wine tasting
/ social groups’ within your own area. This will save
on travel and transport costs, support your local                          16th October:
businesses and provide additional support networks                  Leapfrogs / Mini Golf 11.30am
for you, closer to home.                                         Championship Mini Golf Cup on offer

   WATCH THIS SPACE FOR A GROUP NEAR YOU
  You choose the time, the place and the activity.

         Global Day Luncheon
Every year the International Alliance of ALS/MND
Associations celebrates 21 June as the global day
of recognition of ALS/MND. June 21 is a solstice – a
turning point – and each year the MND community
undertake a range of activities to express their hope
that this day will be another turning point in the
search for cause, treatment and cure of ALS/MND.
MNDAWA hosts a luncheon for clients, carers,
friends, family and past carers.

                                                                                                              8
Mnd matters Until there is a cure, there is care - 2018 Education and Support Program - Motor Neurone Disease ...
Education and Support
       Support Groups
            cont.
                   Pamper Days
    Pamper Days are held to allow people living with
    MND, their family and friends to feel extremely
    special and have some well-earned relaxation
    and pampering. We have an amazing group of
    volunteers to make you feel like you are floating on
    cloud nine……and you can catch up with others
    from our MND Family as well. Come along and
    enjoy Massage, Reiki, Manicures, Pedicures, Foot
    Spas, Facials, Makeovers, KIDZ PLAY ZONE and
    much more….
                      2018 Dates
                      March 17th
        The Niche, Nedlands - 10.00am – 2.00pm

                        June 9th
            Location TBC - 10.00am – 2.00pm

                      August 18th
            Location TBC - 10.00am – 2.00pm

                    November 17th
           Location TBC - 10.00am – 2.00pm

      17th March 2018                                      Please select a MAXIMUM of 3 treatments.
                                                                      Mark boxes with an X
     Pre-book your treatments                              □□ Massage (Upper body)
      for the next Pamper Day                              □□ Reiki
                                                           □□ Reflexology (Mark & Regina)
    Would you like to jump the queue??? This year we       □□ Foot Spa
    are trialling a pre-booking system for the Pamper      □□ Massage (Feet, Lower leg)
    Days to alleviate a bottleneck at the Registration     □□ Manicures
    Table.                                                 □□ Facials
                                                           □□ Makeup
    A maximum of 3x treatments, per person, can be         □□ Hair Braiding
    Pre-Booked. You will then be provided with an
    Appointment Card upon arrival and your pre-booked      Treatments yet to be confirmed – if there is
    treatments will already be written in for you.          enough interest, we will organise these.
    Please complete this tear off section and return
                                                           □□ Pedicures
    to the MNDAWA Office or contact Lisa to discuss
                                                           □□ Hair Styling (Blow Dry)
    further; 6457 7355 or Lisa.Shields@mndawa.asn.au
                                                           □□ Hair Cuts (Trim only)

9
Group Programs 2018
Caring for the
         You Me and MND -
    Specialised Carer Education
The You, Me & MND, Carers Course, is designed to
empower carers with the knowledge and confidence
to care for your loved one living with MND, whilst
ensuring you have a strong emotional foundation to
assist you in coming to terms with the changes that
                                                                  carer
                                                                    Out of Your Mind -
                                                                   Mindfulness Training
                                                           The Program’s focus is to provide carers, family
are taking place in your life. The program is held three   and friends with the tools to develop resilience
times per year with a condensed 2-day program, an          while facing the demands of living with a terminal
evening program over six weeks and a five week             illness. Designed specifically to restore a sense
daytime program.                                           of perspective and control for people under high
                                                           pressure.
          The following topics are covered:
•   What is MND, who is MNDAWA and how                     The program is made up of 3 Modules – Mind Health,
                can we help?                               Mind Efficiency and Mind Resilience. The program
 • Swallowing, nutrition and breathing                     will run over a three-month period, inclusive of:
    • Speech, communication, assistive                          • pre and post workshop surveys,
                 technology                                    • 2 x full days of facilitated Mind
 • Moving and transferring techniques                                        Training,
                  for carers                                  • ongoing communications portals
   • Coping with the changes that are                                       throughout
           taking place in your life                        • establishment of an ongoing support
    • Stress management / Compassion                                         network.
                    fatigue
  • Advanced health directives and care                    There is no need to worry about your loved ones
                   planning                                living with MND when you attend the training. We are
     • And other topics as required…..                     hosting activities for them simultaneously, to allow
                                                           you to commit to attending without worrying about
                   2018 Dates                              their needs.

                       Series 1                                                Session 1
Tuesdays 6-8pm; 20th & 27th February, 6th, 20th &                    Friday 13th April - Midday-5pm
             27th March, 3rd April                                 Saturday 14th April - Midday – 5pm

                       Series 2                                                Session 2
    Mondays 10.00am – 4.00pm; 11th & 18th June                       Friday 25th May Midday – 5pm
                                                                    Saturday 26th May Midday – 5pm
                       Series 3
Thursdays 10.00am – midday; 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd &          NOTE: Sessions planned to allow flexibility –
                29th November                                      choose a Friday or Saturday

                                                                                                             10
Education Programs
           2018 cont.
                                        Information Evening
                  Wednesday 9th May, The Niche Conference Room, 6.00 – 8.00pm
         MNDAWA holds a minimum of one newly diagnosed information session per annum which is
       generally held in the evening and is presented by a neurologist who specialises in Motor Neurone
        Disease. The session provides information on MND and gives people living with MND and their
          families the opportunity to ask questions about the condition in a supportive environment.

                                   Starting the Conversation
                                   Part 1 – Advanced Health Directives
        Specialist guest speakers will guide you gently through the processes involved with developing
      Advance Health Directives, Advance Care Plans, Enduring Power of Attorney and Guardianship, Wills
                                                 and Capacity.

           Carers WA, in partnership with MNDAWA, will have counsellors available during this session.
      It is never too early for everyone to start these conversations because once sorted we can all get on
                                  with the important things and live life to the fullest!

                                          Part 2 – Future Planning
       Guest speakers will explain the Aged Care puzzle, palliative care and what it means to people with
        MND. We will also cover funeral and financial planning as well as what to do with social media
                                                  accounts.

          Carers WA, in partnership with MNDAWA, will have counsellors available during this session.

          2018 DATES
          (Part A) - Tuesday 13th March 1.00 - 4.00pm
          (Part B) – Friday 6th April 1.00 – 4.00pm

          (Part A) – Wednesday 25th July 5.00 – 8.00pm
          (Part B) – Wednesday 12th September 5.00 – 8.00pm

                                                 Carers WA
     At CarersWA - A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to family members and
     friends who have disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness, an alcohol or other drug
     issue, or who are frail aged.
     Carers WA provide counselling services Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 7.30pm. These include;
     • Telephone counselling – easily accessible (free from landline), free and ongoing counselling;
     • Face-to-face counselling – low-cost sessions are offered in a safe space in East Perth, Joondalup,
         Rockingham, Gosnells, Mandurah and Fremantle; and Rural & Remote WA;
     • Skype & E-mail counselling – easily accessible, free ongoing counselling;
     • Bereavement counselling – for up to 6 months from point of notice.

     For support or further inquiries please call the Carers WA Counselling Line on 1800 007 332 or email
     chat@carerswa.asn.au

11
Christmas
  Function 2017
Each year, MNDAWA hold a Christmas Cocktail Function at the Mt Lawley Golf Club to recognise and
celebrate those who have supported the MND community in that year. 2017 bought together over 120
people on Tuesday 12th December and all in attendance seemed to have an enjoyable evening.

Without the generosity and goodwill of the community the MND Association would be unable to
continue our vital family care and support services. We would like to acknowledge and thank every
single individual, community group, company and organisation that supported MNDAWA throughout
2017. Together we can make a difference, and with your help, we do make a difference to people living
with MND and their families. Special mention should be made to the award winners of the evening:

                      President’s Cup: Ken MacLennan
                      The President’s Cup is awarded to an individual selected by the Chairperson
                      who has gone above and beyond for people living with MND and willingly
                      dedicated their time and expertise to support the work of the Association. We
                      are indebted to the generosity of time, energy and organisational capacity of
                      Ken MacLennan. Ken was awarded the President’s Cup in recognition of his
                      leadership of the Drive for MND event over the past five years; resulting in an
                      excess of $870,000 being raised for the Association, ensuring ongoing care and
                      support of our members.
                      Ken pictured left talking to the participants on the Drive for MND.
Eleanor Mounsher Medal: Greg Hambley
The Eleanor Mounsher medal is awarded to an individual each
year who has shown outstanding commitment to the Association
and willingly dedicating their time and efforts to the cause. Greg
has been at the forefront of community fundraising for over
2 years and during this time he has assisted in raising over
$280,000 for the Association and this amount keeps increasing.
Aside from all his fundraising efforts, Greg is passionate and
committed to supporting MND through volunteering and other
community support.
Greg pictured on the far left presenting a cheque from the Swim
for Jim fundraising event with his family and Cara and Maeve
from MNDAWA.

                                Volunteer of the Year: Frank Trafela
                                It is a great privilege to recognise the volunteering efforts of Frank
                                Trafela. In 2017 alone, Frank donated over 150hours to the
                                Association in serving people living with MND. He has volunteered
                                in almost every capacity possible including; bus transport, the craft
                                group, administration help for the office, kitchen hand at functions,
                                and fundraising events including the Walk to d’Feet MND and
                                Street Appeal. Frank is a commited and dedicated volunteer of the
                                Association, pictured left with Chairperson Karen Smart.

 Thank you to all those who supported
    the Association during 2017.
                                                                                                         12
MNDAWA EVENTS
      Dive for                                        ONLY A FEW JUMP
                                                        SPOTS LEFT!
      Dollars                                           Download the registration
                                                              pack online:
                                                       Rottnest Island
                                                     www.divefordollars.com.au

 Skydive from Rottnest Island and go ABOVE and BEYOND to raise funds for
                people living with Motor Neurone Disease.

                        Sunday 18th March 2018 - Rottnest Isalnd
     For event enquiries contact the office on   Proudly supported by:
     admin@mndawa.asn.au or call 6457 7355

                                    SAVE THE DATE!!
                                      SUNDAY 6TH MAY 2018
                                     PERRY LAKES - FLOREAT
 Walk in Honour, Walk in Memory, Walk in Hope
                     Registration’s open in February!!
                    www.walktodfeetwa.com.au
13
GET INVOLVED
   There are many ways to get involved with fundraising for the Association. You can
   choose to hold your own event or take on a challenge to raise funds for people living
   with MND. There are also other community events to get involved in and fundraise
   through them. Here are just a few events coming up in 2018...

                      ROTTNEST CHANNEL SWIM - SATURDAY 24TH FEBRUARY
                          PORT TO PUB SWIM - SATURDAY 17TH MARCH
                          HBF RUN FOR A REASON - SUNDAY 27TH MAY
                        CHEVRON CITY TO SURF - SUNDAY 26TH AUGUST

   You can also support others in the community who are fundraising for the Association.
   Here are some events that others have coming up...

                                                                            Major Sponsors
             Rotary Club of Attadale
             and Fremantle’s
       CHARITY GOLF DAY - FRIDAY 9TH MARCH 2018
The Rotary Clubs of Attadale and Fremantle will be hosting the fifth annual Charity Golf Day on Friday
 9th March 2017 at the Royal Fremantle Golf Club. Funds raised will be donated equally to the Motor
        Neurone Disease Association of WA and the Spinnaker Health Research Foundation.
This event is hugely popular every year and as a result has already got a full field of players.
           BUT...there are a number of other ways you can contribute to the event:

          • You could donate goods or vouchers for raffles, competitions,
                          auction items and event prizes
 •   You could sponsor a hole ($250) which enables your business to be promoted
                             Full details are available upon request from
Co-Sponsors                 Dr Rod Rate, rrate@tpg.com.au, 0411097333.

                                   FRIDAY’S JETSKIS ARE HOSTING THEIR SECOND
                                           “RIDE 2 ROTTO FOR MND” ON
                                            SATURDAY 10th MARCH 2018
                                 Friday's “Ride 2 Rotto For Motor Neurone Disease” is a unique
                                opportunity to ride your jetski to Rottnest Island. Friday’s Jetskis
                                    have been lucky enough to be granted approval to hold
                                 this event as this is not normally permitted. By joining the ride
                                  you will raise awareness and much needed funds for Motor
                                                         Neurone Disease.
     Call Friday's on (08) 9524 5858 or visit www.fridaysjetskis.com.au for full event details.

                                                                                                    14
Community
      CBC CRICKET CLUB GALA DINNER
                                Jan Taylor, MNDAWA Board Member had the privilege of attending
                                and giving a speech at the CBC 2017 gala ball held at the Pagoda
                                Resort on 2 December 2017. Jan and her daughter Leonie enjoyed a
                                wonderful night with over 100 guests in attendance. The CBC cricket
                                club certainly did MNDAWA proud with MND cards and cornflowers
                                at every dinner place setting. Hope puppies, MND pamphlets and
                                change 4 change tins were also dotted around the venue.
                               There was a very busy photo booth set
                               up with those wanting a photo being
                               asked for a gold coin donation, a silent
                               auction and a raffle. A wonderful night
                               thoroughly enjoyed by all that attended.
                               A special mention to David Nolan - MC,
                               Emma Gailbrath – Event coordinator and
     Aleisha Kerrigan from Everlasting Events for the amazing attention
     to detail on the night.

     50TH BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR RICHARD
                                         Richard held a 50th birthday bash at the Hillary’s Yacht
                                         Club on Saturday 2nd December. Special mention goes
                                         to Richard’s wife Kylie, who’s brother Greg Maxwell was
                                         diagnosed with MND early 2017. Greg is 56 and currently
                                         lives in Broken Hill with his partner Dianne, where to this
                                         very day he continues to raise money for MND through
                                         charity rides and selling his paintings along with radio
                                         talk back shows raising awareness in Broken Hill and
                                         the surrounding areas. Rather than receive gifts Richard
                                         believed he has everything anybody can ask for, “I thought
                                         raising money for a very worthwhile cause would be more
                                         beneficial and MND of Western Australia was a no brainer.
     Happy Birthday and thank you        We were so happy that we raised a little over $1,100 on the
     Richard from us all here at         night.”
     MNDAWA.

     DARK PHYSIC
     PRODUCTIONS
     Formed in 2012, Dark Physic              PRIME
     Productions are an independent           MOVERS
     live theatre company in Perth. Dark
     Physic recently show cased “Carrie”
     The Musical during 6 – 21st October
     at the Phoenix Theatre in Hamilton      MNDAWA recently received a wonderful donation
     Hill. MNDAWA was very fortunate         from Prime Movers Inc. Prime Movers are an exercise
     with Dark Physic donating $1,349.00     group for over 50’s within the Perth metropolitan area
     from the proceeds of tickets sales of   with approximately 5000 members. Each year during
     “Carrie”. This is the 2nd production    seniors’ week, Prime Movers have “free” classes
     where Dark Physic have very kindly      offered to their members and in return members are
     supported our Association – a big       asked to give a donation to a charity. MNDAWA was
         thanks to Ryan McNally and all      chosen as their charity of choice with $5,700 being
         those involved in the production.   donated to MNDAWA. Way to go Prime Movers!

15
Fundraising
20-20 SWIM FOR JIM
                                 The 20-20 Swim for Jim fundraising campaign continued on the 21
                                 January at the Grapes and Gallops, the biggest race meeting in Mt
                                 Barker. The Hambley Family who started the campaign in 2015 held
                                 a lunch in the ‘Jim Gilbert Pavilion’, for the first time and hosted 20
                                 people for the day.
                                 They also held a wine auction, selling Magnums of wine from Great
                                 Southern wine producers, this being held for the second year.
                                 Collecting donations, raising funds through the tickets and auction,
                                 the day raised approximately $7,000.

This is the first Grapes and Gallops since Jim Gilbert passed
away from MND. He was one of the instigators in starting this
coming together of the races and a wine festival 11 years ago. He
worked tirelessly every year to make sure the day was a success.
It has been a major event in our town for many years.
A huge thank you to the Mt Barker Turf Club and the Great
Southern Wine producers for their support of our fundraising.
Thank you to Xorro Print and Signage Specialist for providing us
with the banner.

                           RUBY AND MORGAN’S SHARK TANK WEDDING
                           Ruby and Morgan tied the knot on Wednesday 17th January - the same
                           day as their third anniversary. This was no ordinary wedding however, as
                           they said their vows in a shark tank at AQWA. Ruby and Morgan organised
                           a wishing well at the reception to collect donations for MNDAWA in lieu of
                           wedding gifts and raised over $2500 for people living with MND in memory
                           of Morgan’s father Owen who passed away from MND in late 2015. Wishing
                           Ruby and Morgan many happy years and a fun filled future together.

                                                 CONGRATULATIONS
                                                 GAEWYN AND CRAIG
MOVIE NIGHT                  On 26th November 2017 Craig
                             and Gaewyn said I do at an
Sarah who operates           intimate wedding with friends
her home hairdressing        and family. They had a beautiful
salon came up with           Sunday afternoon wedding at
the idea of holding an       Mandurah Quays, celebrating
outdoor movie night          with cocktails and canapés.
for her clients to raise     Gaewyn explained that “we
funds for MNDAWA. The        were so blessed in sharing our
movie night was held         day with my wonderful loving
on the 7th December in       brother Drew (who is living with
honour of her sister-in-     MND)”. After 12 years together,
law has MND. The night       Craig and Gaewyn decided presents were not necessary but we suggested
was a great success          donations to MNDAWA. Thank you Craig and Gaewyn for raising over
raising over $264 for        $600 for people living with MND. Enjoy many more years together now as
MNDAWA.                      husband and wife!

                                                                                                      16
Community
 Fundraising cont.
                                          PAT’S RIDE
                                          The Northern Knights motorcycle group organised an inaugural
                                          ride on 26 November 2017 to remember Patricia Stevens who
                                          sadly passed away after suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.

                                         Pat and her husband Pete, who also passed away recently, loved
                                         going out on their Virago motorcycle and side car affectionately
                                         known as “A Bit On The Side” at every opportunity with their
                                         motorcycle mates. The ride commenced at Lakeside Joondalup
                                         shopping centre and riders travelled the back roads to Gin Gin and
 then finished the ride at the Bindoon Bakehaus & Café. About 40 riders participated in the ride including
 riders from the Joondalup Ulyses group. The group raised $947 from donations collected and all proceeds
 were given the The Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA. Thank you to the Northern Knights and
 supporters.

 CAROLS FOR A CAUSE -
 RED DRESS CHOIR
 The Red Dress Choir are a team of singers who came together
 at Christmas time to perform for their local community and
 beyond. They performed 22 shows in 23 days which is an
 incredible effort and chose to raise money for 4 charities;
 MNDAWA, Alzheimers WA, Camp Kulin and Starlight Children’s
 Foundation, which are all close to the choir members hearts,
 having a personal connection to each cause. The Red Dress
 Choir raised $2335.25 for MNDAWA alone in memory of
 Malcolm Barbera who passed away from MND in 2017.

 ‘Monty’ the 10month old Labradoodle also accompanied the choir to their shows and was ‘Santa’s Dog’
 offering selfies for a small donation - thanks for your support Monty and the Red Dress Choir.

     thank                                 We have so many generous groups and individuals who fundraise

       you
                                           for the Association throughout the year and are so very grateful
                                           for all there support. We could not continue our vital family care
                                           and support services without the community’s generosity and
                                           goodwill. We always like to make mention of those who fundraise
                                           for the Association in our newsletter and share the stories with the
                                           MND community about everyone who is working together to make
 a difference to the lives of those living with MND. If you have organised a fundraiser and would like your
 photo or story included in the next MND Matters please contact the office on phone: 6457 7355 or email:
 admin@mndawa.asn.au

17
Change 4
     Change
TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE
    A DIFFERENCE.
We would like to acknowledge our Change 4 Change
   collectors and the individuals, communities and
companies that have our Blue MND Cornflower boxes
  to raise awareness and funds for the Association.

           Change 4 Change Tins
                  Moira Laurence
                    Lisa Shields
                  Patti Robertson
                 Patricia Simmonds
                   Yahava Koffee
          Harvey Norman Western Australia                              Cornflowers
                                                                       Mr Charles Sims
If you would like to put a Change 4 Change donation                  Freedom Riders WA
   tin or Blue Cornflower box in your office or shop       Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of Western
front please contact the office on 6457 7355 or email                    Australia Inc.

Christmas Appeal
                admin@mndawa.asn.au.

THANK YOU to all 177 people who have generously donated to our Christmas Appeal. The campaign
has raised close to $16,000 to date which will make a significant difference to people living with Motor
Neurone Disease and their families in WA.

Each year we hold two donation appeals which is a very important part of our fundraising income to
enable us to fund our services outside of the Government funded MND Advisory Service, including
support groups, equipment, the patient transport service, and specialised funding to support our families
living with MND.

If you would like to donate to the Christmas Appeal you can do so online by visiting www.mndawa.asn.
au or calling the office on 6457 7355.

                                                                                                        18
We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of...

         Christine Coughlan                Robert Iburg
            Irene D’Cruz                   Ross Jackson
          Damian Delaney                 Mark Smithurst
         Yvonne Emberson             Cornelia Van Der Putten
          Francesca Fuiello                 Anita Weis

        Donations made in Loving Memory of...

       David Aggiss        Frank Bussell        Dawn Flink
      Lorraine Aikins       Thomas Cave       William Forward
     Cynthia Anderson    Lesley Chamberlain    Wayne Foulds
      Stephen Bailey        Sandra Cocks      Betty Gardiner
     Albert Bantleman       Allan Conroy      George Gardiner
      Alicia Bickford     Jane D’Adhemar      Eileen Gardner
         Les Biffin       Enrica De Paolis    David Glenister
       Pamela Blake        Peter Dibble        Peter Godfrey
       Doug Bolton         Dianne Doble        Ken Gormley
      Stephen Brown        Maree Finlay

19
Owen Griffiths    Sandra Marendoli Michael (Mick) Smith
   Spiro Grouzis       Rod McIlroy        Pat Stevens
  Gladys Harris        John McLeod      Robert Taylor
   Wendy Hayes       Stella McMahon    Patricia Thomas
  Robert Haynes      Ron McNamara      Anders Thomsen
  Mary Hayward        Maggie Milne         Joy Vause
  Jackie Hibbert    Desmond G Nelson Graham Waddingham
  Beth Higginson        Jean Nilon     Heather Wallace
    David Holly      Bernard O’Mara       Faye Walsh
     Jean Jones       Frank O’Mara        Owen Ward
   Peter Kearney    Valerie Rangitaawa Marian Watson
  Vivienne Knight     Keith Rimmer        Janet Why
   Winifred Leach    Gwynva Rumball      Elsa Wilkins
    Frank Leahy      Howard Rumball    Peter Wooldridge
    Eric Lockyer     Maxwell Rumball     Don Wright
    Tony Lorian       Barbara Selby     Ursula Yonge
Ena Rose MacPherson      Iris Short      Steven Young
    Roy Mahony         Fred Sipman
   Dennis Mahy        Michael Smith

                                                      20
i               notices
                            After a fulfilling four and half years working as the Association’s Fundraising
                            and Events Manager, it is time for me to say farewell. It has been a privilege

 Farewell                   to have worked with the MNDAWA team and Committee of Management
                            in raising vital funds and awareness for people living with MND and I have

 Cara                       been honoured to have made so many treasured friendships and working
                            partnerships over the years.

                            It has been an exciting (and somewhat challenging) journey developing
                            the fundraising and events portfolio during my time here. Some of my
                            highlights include; building the Walk to d’Feet MND to be the Association’s
                            biggest annual community event, being a part of the inaugural MND Drive
                            which is now (successfully) in its sixth year and my involvement with
                            the MND community, sharing in many new fundraising campaigns and
                            initiatives – notably the Ice Bucket Challenge – which changed MND
                            awareness overnight.

                            I will be moving on to a new role within the not-for-profit sector working for
                            the Royal Flying Doctor Service WA as their Events Manager. This is an
                            exciting move for me, yet touched with sadness, as I say goodbye to the
                            great team here and the MND Community.

                            I wish Andrew, the team and Committee of Management continued success
                            in providing specialised care and support to families living with MND. Until
                            there is a cure, there is care and together we can make a difference.
                            Bye for now, Cara.

       Don’t forget we have partnered with Two Birdz an online shopping
     site that has access to all your favourite stores in one click. For every
       purchase you make online through our site, we will receive a % as
      a donation. With hundreds of different online stores to choose from
       and the opportunity to support MNDAWA when you do your online
                 shopping its “Two Birdz” with one simple click.

                www.mndawa.twobirdz.com.au

21
MNDAWA EVENTS CALENDAR
                     FEBRUARY - MARCH 2018
    Date             Event                 Time                 Venue and Details
                                            FEBRUARY
Thursday 1st    Volunteer Meeting      1pm – 4pm          Board Room

Friday 2nd      Volunteer Bus          1pm – 4pm          Board Room
                Training
Tuesday 6th     Morning group Past     10am-12pm        Chocolateria San Churro
                Carers                                  Sorrento Quay, Hillary’s Boat Harbour
Tuesday 20th    You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm        Board Room
Tuesday 20th    Carers Lunch           11.30am – 1.00pm Passmore Room
Thursday 22nd   Afternoon group Past   2pm - 4pm        Place of Reflection Kings Park. Bring afternoon
                Carers                                  tea, drinks & chairs. Phone Heather 0418 929
                                                        672
Tuesday 27th    You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm        Board Room
                                              MARCH
Tuesday 6th     You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm          Board Room
Tuesday 6th     Morning group Past     10am -12pm         Zamia Café,
                Carers                                    May Drive, Kings Park
Friday 9th      Charity Golf Day       12pm-7pm           Royal Fremantle Golf Course
                (Rotary Club of
                Attadale)
Tuesday 13th    Starting the           1pm – 4pm          TBC
                Conversation Part A
Saturday 17th   Pamper Day             10am-2pm           Passmore Room & Conference Room, Board
                                                          room, Foyer & 1st Floor meeting room
Sunday 18th     Dive for Dollars       Day event          Rottnest Island
Tuesday 20th    You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm          Board Room
Thursday 22nd   Afternoon group Past   2pm - 4pm          120/27 Pearson Ave, Success
                Carers                                    Home of Helen Schulz; phone: 9498 6719
Tuesday 27th    You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm          Board Room
                                               APRIL
Tuesday 3rd     You, Me & MND          6pm – 8pm          Board Room

Tuesday 3rd     Morning group Past     10am -12pm         Baby Grumpy Sailor
                Carers
Friday 6th      Starting the           1pm - 4pm          Conference Room
                Conversation Part B

Friday 13th     Out of Your Mind       12pm - 5pm         Conference Room

Saturday 14th   Out of Your Mind       12pm - 5pm         Conference Room

Tuesday 17th    Carers Lunch           11:30am - 1pm      Caffossimo @ WA Maritime Museum, Victoria
                                                          Quay, Fremantle.
Thursday 26th   Afternoon Past Carers 2pm - 4pm           66/7 Clere Pass, Canning Vale
                Group                                     Home of Janne Parsell, phone: 6254 2536

                                                                                                     22
.
      Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA
                                                                            The Niche, Suite B, 11 Aberdare Road,
                                                                            Nedlands, WA 6009
                                                                            Phone: 6457 7355
                                                                            Email: admin@mndawa.asn.au
                                                                            Web: www.mndawa,asn.au
                                                                            ABN: 49 312 430 982

MEMBERSHIP:
MNDAWA is a member of MND Australia, with a delegate Board. It has strong links with other MND Associations
around Australia and internationally, and the MND Research Institute of Australia. If you would like to become
a member or renew your membership please contact the office.

DISCLAIMER:
The articles provided in this newsletter sometimes contain personal opinions that may not reflect Board policy.
Research articles are selected from reliable sources, we do our best to ensure currency and accuracy.

LIKE US:                                                                           MND MATTERS DIGITAL
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