Special Days Matter: MND Association Launches Global Awareness Campaign

"The campaign highlights meaningful moments beyond birthdays, anniversaries and weddings—such as regaining independence with a stairlift or wheelchair, or reading a grandchild a bedtime story with a communication aid."

The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association has launched a campaign titled 'Special days matter' to mark Global MND Awareness Day on June 21.

Billboards are now appearing in towns and cities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland—including Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and Bradford—featuring members of the MND community sharing personal moments that have shaped their lives.

Personal Stories Take Centre Stage

Former BBC Look North correspondent Andrew Hartley is featured on a billboard. Diagnosed with MND in 2023, he served as best man at his brother's wedding in April 2024—after initially doubting his ability to deliver a speech.

Linda Mace, who has primary lateral sclerosis (PLS), a form of MND, attended pottery classes funded by the MND Association. She said the classes gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

Mike Willis received an improved synthetic voice using AI technology, which he described as sounding much more like his original voice.

Support from Ambassadors

Misha Grimes, whose father John died of MND in 2022, has raised awareness and funds for the Association. She also runs an online bereavement community called Just Grieve.

Charlie Ireland, known as 'Cheerful Charlie' from Clarkson's Farm, whose father Christopher died of MND in 2011, has also backed the campaign.

Broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby sent an email to the MND community reflecting on special days with his brother Nicholas, who died of MND in 2024.

The campaign serves as a powerful reminder that for those living with MND, the most meaningful moments are often the ones others might take for granted.