Nick Deane, a resident of Shrewsbury, received a devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) at the age of 57. Despite the challenges he faces with speech and swallowing, Nick has not allowed the condition to deter his passion for making a difference for others in a similar situation. As an active individual and a dedicated member of the Shropshire Shufflers running group, Nick embarked on a fundraising journey to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
His commitment to the cause led him to raise an impressive £11,000 by running 26 miles in December. This initial success motivated Nick to push further and organize a Three Peaks Challenge alongside a team of nearly 40 individuals. Together, they have raised close to £50,000 for MND research, emphasizing the urgent need for advancements in understanding and treating this complex disease.
Nick’s inspiration for taking on such physical and fundraising challenges stemmed from the legacy of late rugby star and MND campaigner Rob Burrow. The impactful work and advocacy efforts of figures like Prof. Stephen Hawking, footballer Fernando Ricksen, and Rob Burrow have played a significant role in raising awareness about MND in the public eye. Nick highlighted the profound impact of Rob Burrow’s dedication to fundraising and advocacy, acknowledging him as a source of inspiration for individuals battling MND.
The support and encouragement extended to Nick by friends and fellow volunteers, such as Meole councillor Bernie Bentick, have been instrumental in his journey towards raising awareness and funds for MND research. Bernie Bentick commended Nick’s bravery and positivity in the face of adversity, emphasizing the importance of continued support for research initiatives aimed at understanding the complexities of Motor Neurone Disease.
Amanda Devlin, a regional fundraiser for MNDA in the West Midlands, expressed her gratitude for the outstanding fundraising efforts of Nick and his team. The collective dedication and determination displayed by the participants in climbing the Three Peaks and raising substantial funds underscore the unwavering commitment to advancing research and support for individuals affected by MND.
To contribute to Nick’s fundraising efforts and follow his journey, donations can be made through the designated GoFundMe page. Additionally, Nick documents his experiences and endeavors on his YouTube channel, providing a platform for raising awareness and sharing updates on his fundraising initiatives. The collective efforts of individuals like Nick Deane and his dedicated team demonstrate the power of community support and advocacy in driving progress towards a better understanding and management of Motor Neurone Disease.