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LocationHertfordshire
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ContactHetty Smith and Christine Carter
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Phone
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Welcome to the Hertfordshire Branch
Welcome to the Hertfordshire branch of the MND Association. We are here to provide you, your family and the community a broad range of support, as you live with this disease.
This includes friendship, access to various resources, regular contact opportunities, fundraising activities and support for National campaigns highlighting awareness of and the impact of MND.
The Branch is run entirely by volunteers and provides a vital link between the National Association and the local Hertfordshire community. Our aim is to make a positive difference to people affected by MND by:
- Visiting with those living with MND, providing support and information to you and your carers.
Trained Association Visitors attached to the Branch provide personal and direct contact with those living with MND. They offer support, help, and guidance to those living with MND and their families. They can help with navigating the way through the health and social care system.
- Fundraising to pay for equipment not provided elsewhere, and to contribute to things that provide quality of life such as transport, therapies or holiday costs.
- Raising awareness of the disease through the local media, our newsletters and this website.
- Playing an active part in networking and building relationships locally with health and social care professionals, to influence and improve services for people with MND.
- Holding regular, informal Open Meetings where people with MND, their carers and families have various opportunities to meet other people living with the disease and share experiences.
If you are interested in volunteering with us to help make a difference to people living with MND in Hertfordshire, please do not hesitate to contact us.
If you are living with MND or are a family member/carer, we are able to provide support and advice – please get in touch.
Contact Details:
For those living in North Herts (north of Hatfield), please contact Christine Carter:
Email- [email protected]. Tel: 01462 883450/07935 724384
For those living in South Herts (south of Hatfield), please contact Hetty Smith:
Email - [email protected]. Tel: 01462 630195/07930 462870
Fundraising
We enjoy raising funds for our local Branch to help with the care of local people affected by MND and to provide support for carers and families.
A variety of fund-raising activities have been carried out throughout the years, including :
- Collections at local supermarkets and train stations
- Street collections in local towns
- Bric-a-brac Stalls
- Attendance at local events, such as Stevenage Day
- Quiz Nights
- Musical Concerts
Recent news
Kent steps down as MNDA Hertfordshire chairman
Our branch's chairman Kent Allen has stepped down from his role as Hertfordshire branch chair after four and a half years of service and dedication. It is clear that his commitment and leadership have been invaluable to all of the volunteers and those supported by the branch, and we all appreciate the amount of work both he and the committee have put in to support those living with MND in Hertfordshire.
The Hertfordshire Branch is busy and thriving, and delivers an incredible amount of support and fundraising. From running support groups in both North and South Herts to organising non-stop fundraising events, the dedication of our team is outstanding. We also have a fantastic group of Association Visitors who provide vital support to those affected by MND, along with many other initiatives that make a real difference to the community.
Following Kent's departure, we are now looking to recruit a new Hertfordshire Branch Chair and would like to invite anyone interested in the role to apply.
To apply please provide a supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no longer than one side of A4 and demonstrate how you meet the criteria of this role (outline in attached role description), and how your personal/professional skills and experience would enhance the future of the branch.
To support an inclusive application process, we are open to receiving alternative applications from people who may find it difficult to complete this online. If you would like to apply an alternative method, please do not hesitate to reach out.
The application deadline is 11am on Monday 3rd March 2025, applications are to be emailed to [email protected] only applications received directly will be reviewed for consideration, alternate application . With in person interviews taking place week commencing Monday 17th March 2025.
Lindsay's January Challenge
Our very own Lindsey Lucas will be running 31 miles in January in support of the Hertfordshire branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.Having lost her sister-in-law to MND, she is looking to raise funds to help support those living with this devesating disease.If you would like to donate to Lindsey’s incredible fundraiser, you can read more and visit her JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/.../lindsey-lucas...
Support for MNDA Hertfordshire is reaching the London Marathon 2025
Lauren Petchell, the daughter of one of our people living with MND, has an MND place to run the London Marathon in April 2025. After witnessing the devastating effects of MND on her father, she is looking to raise money for both the Hertfordshire branch of the MNDA, but also the national association too.
- Star Platforms and Richard Miller for their generous sponsorship.
- Stocks Golf Club for allowing the use the course and discounting their green fees.
- The Old Town Golf Shop in Hemel for giving a discount on all competition prizes
- The Golf Clubs who donated an auction prize which made £1725 on the day!
- All the golfers for supporting the event.
Molly takes on Brighton Marathon for MND Association
MND is an incredibly cruel disease that strips those affected of their independence and changes peoples lives forever.
Molly Skyes is no stranger to the effects of MND following her dad's diagnosis of MND back in 2022, but despite the impacts of the disease, he has shown an admirable level of strength and resilience, and has inspired Molly to raise funds to help us in the fight against MND.
Looking to raise funds for the MND Association and the Hertfordshire branch, Molly is taking on the 2025 Brighton marathon, and is asking for donations to support her inspiring fundraiser.
To find out more, and to donate, please click here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/molly-sykes-1722456568491?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fmolly-sykes-1722456568491&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share
Inspiring fundraiser for the London Marathon 2025
Lauren Petchell, the daughter of one of our people living with MND, has an MND place to run the London Marathon in April 2025. After witnessing the devestating effects of MND on her father, she is looking to raise money for both the Hertforshire branch of the MNDA, but also the national association too.
If you'd be able to support her fundraiser, we would be incredibly grateful for your support.
To find out more, and to donate, please click here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/lauren-petchell-1720549287058?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Flauren-petchell-1720549287058&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share
Upcoming Events
Past Events
Xmas Lunch 2024
Our branch has a fantastic turnout for our annual Christmas lunch in December 2024. One of those in support and who provided a wonderful Christmas cake was by our very talented Association Visitor Elaine.
Real Tennis Challenge Match
A Real Tennis charity match is being held on Sunday 24th November from 11:00 - 16:30 at Hatfield House Real Tennis courts to raise proceeds for the MND Association.
If you're able to donate, we would be incredibly grateful for your support.
Coffee raises money for MND Association
MNDA Hertfordshire's recent talks
We were delighted to be invited to give two talks recently when we talked about the work of the MND nationally in terms of research, campaigning and care, the disease itself and the work we do in our branch.
The first talk was on 7th September to the Men’s Breakfast Club of St. Mary’s Church, Hatfield where we joined 30 members of the Club for breakfast before giving our talk. This was arranged as one of their club members was a close friend of Aaron Starkey – a lot of fundraising has been done in memory of Aaron.
The second talk was on 10th September to the Fellowship Group of St. Mary’s The Virgin Church in Welwyn. Here we were joined again by about 30 members of the Group. We were asked to give this talk as a member of the group lived with MND, dying just months after diagnosis. This time we were treated to a wonderful tea. Various members made donations on the day and the group donated £50 as well.
Nearly £2k raised for Herts MNDA at Woolyfest Music Festival
Jackie Castle and Phil Corke started the Woolyfest Music Festival at the Red Lion in Woolmer Green some years ago, and this year have donated £1,900 to Herts MNDA, raised in memory of Aaron Starkey.
The cheque was presented to Aaron's wife, Claire and our Committee Member, Grant. The funds were raised at the annual festival held in July where MND was one of the three supported charities. An amazing fundraiser from what was, by all accounts, a fantastic community event.
Guiness world record holder living with MND looks to smash two new records
An inspiring swimmer who is living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is looking to secure two Guinness World Records in two countries in just one day when he takes part in a special event in September.
Mark O'Brien, from Bedfordshire, has previously broken a Guinness World Record by taking part in a five-and-a-half-hour open water swim spanning 11km and raised £17,000 for the Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Motor Neurone Disease Association branches, and will take part in two sprint events on September 1.
The first of the two events is a 50m freestyle at Inspire Luton Sports Village in the morning, followed by a 100m freestyle at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin, Ireland, in the afternoon.
Mark, who holds dual citizenship in the UK and Ireland, is aiming to become the record holder for the fastest swims for a person with MND and will be raising money for the MND Association, Challenging MND and the Irish MND Association at the same time.
He explained:
"Having been diagnosed with MND, a terminal illness that affects the brain, muscles, and nerves, leading to respiratory failure, I've faced immense challenges.
With my family, friends, and support from the MND associations in the UK and Ireland, and the charity Challenging MND, I've emerged from the darkest time of my life.
My mission now, outside of fundraising for these amazing charities, is to highlight the mental health impact of terminal illness and the positive effects of challenging oneself."
Sharon King, the MND Association’s Senior Regional Fundraiser said:
"We are deeply honoured to support Mark once again and are overwhelmed by his remarkable dedication and resilience in facing such a formidable challenge.
His unwavering commitment to raising awareness and funds is truly inspiring, embodying the relentless spirit needed in the fight against MND. Mark’s efforts are nothing short of amazing, and we are profoundly grateful for his support."
Diagnosed with MND in March 2022, Mark has been inspired by the likes of Rob Burrow and Alex Gibson to raise awareness and encourage increased funding for MND charities.
Mark's mission is to make a difference with the time he has left and never give up until his last breath. With his condition deteriorating, Mark is determined to try and still make a difference.
The Hertfordshire Branch is immensely grateful for the generous support he has provided, and is inspired by his incredible determination.
We send all our best wishes to Mark as he takes on his next challenge.
MNDA Hertfordshire nominated charity for Classics On The Common
Jenny Fellas, Association Visitor in South Herts, Grant Cameron and Hetty Smith, Hertfordshire branch Committee Members, spent the day at the annual Classics on the Common event in Harpenden on 24th July.
Rainy weather didn't stop our annual Walk To D'feet from being a success
On Saturday 6th July, MND Association volunteers and members of the public took to Stanborough Park in Welwyn Garden City to take part in the MND Association Hertfordshire branch's annual Walk To D'feet.
Walk To D'feet's are all about raising awareness and funds for MND, and everyone who takes part is playing a part in tackling MND.
Despite the unfortunate weather, 42 people attended and were all in good spirit, and helped to raise funds for the Hertfordshire branch to allow us to continue our work in helping those affected by MND in the local community.
We want to thank all of those who attended and supported us.
Herts Baseball Club's Record-Breaking Charity Day
On Sunday, 2nd June, Hertfordshire residents and businesses joined members of the baseball community in support of Motor Neurone Disease research and the local MND Association Hertfordshire branch, where £1388.64 was raised from a charity event organised by Herts Baseball Club, at a sunny Grovehill Ballpark in Hemel Hempstead.
June 2nd is a significant date for Major League Baseball (MLB), as America's top professional league marks Lou Gehrig Day each year in honour of the former Yankees star player who had MND. However, this date will now also mark the day the association's late patron Rob Burrow lost his fight with MND.
We are immensely grateful to Peter Hogg, the organiser of the event, and Michael Cresswell, Club President for their support of our branch. Herts Baseball Club plans to make Lou Gehrig Day an annual event when they hope to inspire other international clubs, players, and fans to get involved and make next year even bigger and we, at the branch, look forward to supporting the next event.
Latest News
For more information about the different events and activities organised by the branch in order to provide support, raise awareness, and fundraise on behalf of people living with MND, please read our latest newsletter or contact us.
Latest Newsletter September Newsletter
March Newsletter January Newsletter
MND Connect
MND Connect is more than just a helpline. MND Connect offers people access to a quick route to get advice, practical and emotional support and directing to other services and agencies.
MND Connect is available 9am to 5pm and 7pm to 10.30pm Mondays to Fridays. Calls are charged at local rate.
The service is for:
- People living with MND
- Carers
- Family members
- Health and Social Care Professionals
- MND Association staff and volunteers.
MND Connect can:
- Give information about MND and how to cope with symptoms
- Give medical, social, practical and financial information
- Offer help and advice
- Put you in touch with an Association Visitor, local Branch/Group or Regional Care Development Adviser
- Advise on the services the MND Association can offer
- Send you leaflets and information sheets
- Put you in touch with other appropriate services
MND Connect is made up of a team of experienced staff and volunteers who work closely with our local and regional services.
Contact MND Connect on 0808 8026262 or email : [email protected]
Gazebo for hire
The Branch has recently acquired a Gazebo which can be borrowed, subject to availability, for a small donation to Branch Funds. The Gazebo is green, 3 metres x 3 metres, it has two side panels if required and can be easily erected by 2 people. Please contact [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.
Branch Committee
Committee Member’s Contact details
Any of the Committee can be contacted through our email addresses: [email protected] or [email protected]
Chairperson - Kent Allen: 07771 876562
Treasurer - Heather Hurley: 01462 627025
Secretary - Lindsey Lucas: 07905 157764
Branch Contact - Chris Carter: 01462 338450
Committee Member & Fundraising Coordinator - Hetty Smith: 01462 630195
Committee Member - Maria Watson: 07800 978281
Committee Member - Grant Cameron: 07896 260261
