The hidden realities of MND 

Each year on 21 June the MND Association joins with the wider MND community around the world to mark Global MND Awareness Day – a day to honour everyone affected by motor neurone disease.  

Global MND Awareness Day began in 1997, led by the International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations. The date - June 21, the summer solstice - symbolises light, strength, and the resilience of the global MND community. Over time, this day has grown into a powerful platform, bringing together voices from all corners of the world.

Hidden Realities 

This year, we shone a light on the hidden realities of living with MND.  

MND is brutal. It robs people of their ability to move, speak, swallow and eventually breathe. There is no cure, few effective treatments and little understanding of why it happens.

They’re the facts. But what about the day-to-day? The practical? The emotional? 

Anna

Anna loved her career in adult social care but MND forced her to give it up. That hasn’t stopped Anna’s drive and ambition to improve peoples’ lives, as she now campaigns to raise awareness of MND.

 

Lee

Lee was an adrenaline junkie, known for throwing himself into extreme sports like ice hockey, climbing and canoeing. Although MND has now taken Lee’s strength, it hasn’t dulled his spark. 

Michele

MND means Michele can no longer say I love you, or have a spontaneous conversation with her daughter. But that doesn’t stop Michele’s love. 

MND is a diagnosis that can bring fear, frustration and helplessness, for the person diagnosed and those close to them, as gradually their physical abilities are diminished.

But it doesn’t define those people.

What defines each person is the way they deal with the hidden realities of the disease. With courage, with determination and with hope. The way they find new ways to communicate. The way they find pleasure in different things. The way the love inside shines through.

Be part of the change with Anna, Lee and Michele.

You can take a powerful step toward change by signing up for our Campaigns Newsletter. Stay informed about crucial actions, events, and opportunities to help push for better care, research, and greater support for everyone affected by MND. Together, our voice is louder.

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Honour someone special this MND Awareness Day

On 21 June, Global MND Awareness Day, we honoured those that have died of, are living with and are affected by, MND. We invited you to share a tribute to someone special - whether it was a name, photo, or a few heartfelt words, your contribution helped us raise awareness. There’s still time to add your tribute.

 

How to take part: 

  • Visit our Facebook, Instagram or X pages
  • In the comments, share a name, photo, or memory of someone special to you

 

Your contribution will become part of a growing online tribute – a powerful show of support for the MND community and all those affected by MND, serving as a reminder as to why our work matters. 

By submitting a tribute, you confirm you have the person’s consent to share any personal details. Please do not share sensitive personal data without permission.

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Raising awareness

Find out more information about motor neurone disease and how we raise awareness and the support we offer.