Do you remember last year’s ‘Ice Bucket’ challenge? If you were one of the thousands of people who were drenched in icy water, then you probably do!
The campaign raised over £7 million to support those living with MND, a progressive disease which attacks nerves in the brain and spinal cord, stopping messages reaching from muscles and leading to muscle weakness and wasting. And, just as importantly, it raised awareness of this debilitating disease, which currently affects around 5,000 people living in the UK.
Local Hospice Care charity Phyllis Tuckwell currently cares for 35 MND patients, offering a wide range of services from medical and clinical care, to counselling and social work advice. Its occupational therapists and physiotherapists help patients to maintain their independence and cope with everyday tasks, whilst its complementary therapists offer a range of treatments including massages, aromatherapy and acupuncture, to help ease patients’ pain and aid relaxation.
June is MND month and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) has launched Last Summer, a campaign to celebrate the success of 2014’s ice bucket challenge, whilst reminding people that for some of those living with MND, last summer will have been exactly that – their last.
If you would like to find out more about MND or how you can support Phyllis Tuckwell in caring for patients and relatives facing this serious progressive illness, visit www.pth.org.uk or call the Fundraising team on 01252 729446.
- Ends -
Notes for Editors:
For press enquiries and alternative pictures contact: Jen Barnes at Phyllis Tuckwell on 01252 729433 or email jen.barnes@pth.org.uk
