This bookclub have not just formed a great bond, but have taken steps to help those around them. Recently they did a public performance of the Haka warrior dance, at a farewell party, for a New Zealand member of their club. Now, they are about to undertake a 25 mile circular challenge, climbing the three highest peaks of Yorkshire. They aim to complete this within a 12 hour period. And is this for the sake of their health? No!
Stephen Barbour, bookclub member and organiser of the challenge explains,”‘We are raising money for a charity that supports people with a relatively unknown condition. Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks the upper and lower motor neurons. Degeneration of the motor neurons leads to weakness and wasting of muscles, causing increasing loss of mobility to the limbs and difficulty with speech, swallowing and breathing. This is often a terminal disease affecting 2 people in 100,000.”
Stephen’s friend, Howard, is one of the unlucky two. Howard, a popular man in our St Albans community, is a terrific dad to three boys and husband to a supportive wife.
Stephen says “Life is just not fair, since his illness was diagnosed, he has continued to be very positive and do as much as he can with the boys and you will never hear him moan about his illness.”
Louise Coxon, communications manager at the Motor Neurone Disease Association, says:”We rely entirely on voluntary donations from the public to help support and care for people with MND and to fund ground-breaking research to find a cure for this cruel disease. We are committed to fighting MND and so we really value the passion and commitment of our supporters because every penny raised helps to make a real differance to the individuals and families affected by MND.”
The walk will take place on 4th September and the ‘boys’ would welcome your donations. Click on www.justgiving.com/Stephen-Barbour0 and follow instructions.
Information on MND is available on www.mndassociation.org
