MND AWARENESS WEEK

MND Awareness Week is celebrated nationally in the first full week of May each year.  MND Associations work together during this week to raise awareness of MND to realise the vision of a world free from the impact of MND.

Each year MND Australia and the State Associations undertake a Call to Action to address national issues that impact people living with Motor Neurone Disease in Australia. This year we are asking members to support the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) campaign. A NDIS will change the way services for people with disabilities are funded and structured providing a no-fault insurance scheme for everyone who has, or acquires a significant disability.

The Key message with the Call to Action is that it is time to change the way services for people with disabilities are funded and structured in Australia so that people diagnosed with MND can access disability services as soon as a need arises no matter where that person lives or how old they are. People diagnosed with MND need a rapid response to their support needs and so waitinglists are not an option. Services to support people living with MND and their families must include:

• Timely Assessments
• Respite, home care support and personal care
• Case management and care packages
• Equipment, assistive devices and home modifications 

MND Australia and the State MND Associations are asking their members, families and supporters to write to their Federal and State politicians to let them of their care needs.  This is especially important in South Australia as it will assist with our campaign seeking State Government funding to support and expand our client support services.  The South Australian MND Association remains the only mainland MND Association not receiving funding support from its State Government.

For further information visit www.mndaust.asn.au

MND merchandise is available for sale during MND Week.  To order, please visit our website www.mndasa.com.au  or contact the MND Association on 8234 8448.

Annual Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance.  The service will be held on Sunday 27 June 2010 at the Disability SA Chapel, 103 Fisher Street, Fullarton.  More information will be available during May.