High praise for MND fundraising effort

THIS year’s Dennis Gleeson MND Superchallenge is set to reach a six-figure milestone.

In early 2016 a group of Heathcote bowlers, now the Never Give Up Group, organised a 24-hour marathon fundraiser after their mate Dennis Gleeson was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

That first event netted over $20,000 and by this year the total raised for MND Victoria should hit $100,000.

MND Victoria’s manager of supporter development and communications Daniel Woodrow said the work of the Never Give Up Group had been incredible.

“We at MND Victoria are so grateful they continue to raise funds and awareness throughout the community for all Victorians who are impacted by MND,” he said

“Ever since their great mate Dennis Gleeson was diagnosed with MND, their passion to raise the bar each year has been inspiring and the fact $100,000 has nearly been reached is a phenomenal effort.

“I’m also very thankful to the local community who continually get involved in a fun and meaningful day out.

“These funds can’t be raised without the support of so many locals and bowlers that come from far and wide.

“MND Victoria relies so heavily on fundraising events to continue providing the best possible care and support to Victorians living with MND at no cost to them. MND is not only one of the worst diseases imaginable, it’s also very costly.”

“MND Victoria’s goal is to ensure the best quality of life can be lived through a wide range of services designed to keep people living with MND safe, independent and engaged with their communities for as long as possible.

“As we regularly say-until there’s a cure, there’s care.”

Mr Woodrow has taken part in the Heathcote fundraiser for the past five years and while the superchallenge is now a day event, the Great Aussie Bowls Marathon in 2019 saw him, along with his wife Stace, work the greens non-stop for 24 hours.

“On a personal note, this day will always have a special place in my heart,” he said.

“I have formed great friendships with many up at Heathcote and have seen the absolute best of people who continually go out of their way to help people impacted by MND.

“Just three weeks after our 24-hour bowls marathon in 2019, my father passed away from an eleven-year battle with MND.

“He was an avid lawn bowler and because of him I started playing when I was ten years old.

“I have played ever since, so the Heathcote fundraising day literally combines my passions of playing bowls and helping others impacted by MND.”

Mr Woodrow will be back on the green at Heathcote this Australia Day.

“I look forward to being part of another brilliant day,” he said.

The MND Superchallenge takes place on Thursday, 26 January at Heathcote Bowling Club.

While player teams are now full, everyone is encouraged to come along and show their support.

Along with the bowling there’s a fundraising raffle with prizes include bikes, tools, a barbecue and meat vouchers.

Raffle tickets can be purchased now for $5 each at Heathcote Post Office, the Oval Café or by calling 0418 304 259.

Money raised goes to MND Victoria to support people affected by motor neurone disease.