Facts

• MND is the name given to a group of related diseases affecting the motor neurones (nerve cells) in the brain and spinal cord. As the motor neurones gradually die, the muscles stop working
• MND is a rapidly progressive and fatal disease that can affect any adult at any time. The cause of MND is unknown and there is no known cure
• At least three people a day die from MND in the UK. It affects around 5,000 people in this country alone at any one time. Half of people with MND will die within 14 months of diagnosis
• MND leaves people unable to walk, talk or feed themselves, but the intellect and the senses usually remain unaffected. People with MND can still think and feel, but their muscles refuse to work
• MND was first described in 1869 by French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot. In the USA and other countries it is known as ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
• Famous people who have died of MND include actor David Niven, footballers Don Revie and Willie Maddren, Leonard Cheshire – founder of the Cheshire Homes for disabled people - and journalist Jill Tweedie
• Professor Stephen Hawking, author of “A Brief History of Time” is exceptional; he has survived with MND for over 35 years

THE MND ASSOCIATION

• The MND Association was established in 1979. It provides care and support for people with MND and their families, and funds vital research into causes, treatments and a cure for MND
• The Association funds 13 Care Centres across the country – providing co-ordinated care under one roof for people with MND – and plans to expand that number over the next five years
• The Association has around 100 staff, including 25 regional staff working with volunteers and families affected by MND out in the community. It has 85 Branches, providing support to people locally, over 2,000 volunteers and 250 Association Visitors
• A national telephone Helpline on 08457 626262 is open from 9am – 5pm and 7pm – 10.30pm Monday to Friday. Calls are charged at local rates.
• Donations to the MND Association can be made by telephoning 01604 611860, writing to the MND Association, PO Box 246, Northampton, NN1 2PR or online at www.mndassociation.org.