Team Fergie

Hey everyone,

My names Steve……

As most of you know by now my best man Fergie (Mark) has been diagnosed with MND.

Fergie’s always been there for me so it’s only fair I try make the ride a bit smoother for him and his family by returning the favour, showing him love and support.

We are trying to raise as much money as possible to make some adaptions to allow everyday life to be smoother and more accessible for Fergie. Doing so will make the heartbreaking journey a little less stressful for himself, Lucy (his beautiful wife) and their 3 children.

So what is MND…

Motor Neutron Disease is a rapidly progressing terminal illness, which stops signals from the brain reaching the muscles. This can cause someone to lose the ability to walk, talk, swallow or breathe unaided and the average life expectancy is just 18 months from diagnosis.

FERGIES story….

In September 2022, Mark sought medical attention due to a persistent arm spasm that he had been having difficulty with since June. Initially attributing it to tiredness, unfitness, or age, Mark's concern deepened when he experienced a sudden limp one night while out with friends.

Determined to seek answers, Mark promptly contacted his doctor and after a

series of tests, he was referred to a neurologist, where he received the worrying

suggestion that his symptoms could be indicative of motor neuron disease (MND).

On January 5, 2023, he was officially diagnosed with MND.

Since then his mobility has worsened, requiring him to rely on a walking stick and he has experienced a significant loss of power and dexterity in his hands effecting is ability to wash, dress and eat comfortable. Such simple tasks causes incredible fatigue and often he needs to retreat to bed for periods of time throughout the day.

Raising funds….

Fergies19 concept is to complete 19 challenges for Mark. The number 19 is his lucky number so what better way to celebrate and honour him by doing 19.

So far we have completed the following challenges raising funds for not just Fergies19 but also for other MND charities the family hold close to their hearts.

CHALLENGES COMPLETED TO DATE

1. Beach 10k 02.06.23

2. Kilt Walk 04.06.23 (for MND Scotland & Fergies19)

3. The Sundown cycle 24.06.23

4. Bennachie Walk 18x 36 hours 01.07.23

5. Golf 10.07.23 76 holes

6. Football Festival 15.07.23

7. Chapelton 10k 16.07.23 (for MND Scotland & Fergies19)

8. Step challenge x 70 people walking 19000miles between them, est 190miles per person for the month of August

9. Speyside Way Ultra Marathon 50K 19.08.23 (MND Scotland & Fergies19)

10. Ride the North 65miles 26.08.2023 (MND Scotland & Fergies19)

To follow our progress, to be involved in any events or do your own 19 challenge please follow the FERGIES19 Facebook page (link below) or contact myself (Steve Kindness) by message on 07955 117023 we can help organise and get the word out on social media.

https://m.facebook.com/groups/257576820153675/?ref=share

Times are tough so if you can not donate a simple share of the group, the go fund me page or any of the posts on what we are up to would be just as supportive.

I know any support is greatly appreciated from myself, Marks friends and especially his family.

Let’s get this done for our mate

We love you pal

#FERGIES19

Thank you for taking the time to read our story . X