Help George and Mo Battle MND

Dear friends and supporters,

Our dear friend George Orr has recently been confronted with a life-altering diagnosis of Motor Neuron Disease (MND). We are fundraising to help alleviate the financial burden that this distressing and severe diagnosis has had on George and his wife Marilyn. After sharing a remarkable 47 years together, filled with adventure and love, their dreams of a fulfilling retirement have been shattered by this devastating news. In the space of just a few short months, their entire world has been turned upside down and we are determined to do everything we can to support them during their challenging journey with this fatal disease.

Marilyn and George have always been incredibly kind-hearted, inspiring, passionate and generous people. Marilyn has passionately dedicated many years to volunteering with charities and helping vulnerable animals, while George has always been there for anyone in need. After recently retiring, George even began volunteering his time in the market garden. They have always given their time, abundantly and selflessly, to their communities.

MND is a merciless condition that progresses rapidly, causing paralysis and robbing individuals of their ability to walk, speak and breathe independently. As George is 72 years old, he does not qualify for funding through the NDIS, leaving him with limited financial support for the costly equipment and treatments he desperately needs. Our primary goal is to make George as comfortable as possible and minimise his suffering as the disease progresses.

With an average life expectancy of just 2 to 3 years after diagnosis, time is of the essence. George needs our help urgently. Within only the first few months of diagnosis, he has already experienced numerous falls and struggles with basic tasks like walking, showering, and even using the restroom. He has lost all independence, and can no longer drive or maintain their 4-acre property due to the fast progression of his condition. He was once the cook of the household, but even this task has become impossible for him now as he relies on a walker just to stand.

George is currently under the care of a team of eight specialists, including a general practitioner, neurologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, exercise physiologist, dietitian, and social worker. The medical appointments, exercise sessions, and consultations with these specialists come with substantial costs, which we hope to help cover. Additionally, there are essential medical equipment and devices such as neuro nodes, a suction machine, and a cough assist machine that George will need in due course.

To ensure George's comfort and safety, we need to make some urgent modifications to their home. This includes demolishing and replacing the shower area to make it wheelchair-friendly, providing enough space for a nurse to assist George during showers. Additionally, we need to install grab rails in the shower and toilet areas, as well as at the main door. A wheelchair ramp is also necessary for George's access to the house. Furthermore, we aim to provide him with a lift chair, wheelchair, and other necessary aids.

The financial burden of this situation is overwhelming, especially considering that George does not receive a government pension. This means that they have no option but to fund all expenses themselves. We are determined to support our dear friend and ensure he receives the care and assistance he deserves.

This is where you come in! We invite you to join us in this crucial fundraising effort for George. Any contribution, whether big or small, will make a significant difference in improving his quality of life and easing the financial strain on him and Marilyn. Together, we can provide George with the support and comfort he needs during the unimaginable challenges they are facing.

George's love, kindness, and selflessness have touched us all, and now we have the chance to come together as a compassionate community to make a meaningful impact in the life of someone who has always been there for others.

We thank you for your generosity and for standing beside George and Marilyn during this difficult time.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Carol and the fundraising team (Miranda, Renata, Adele, Katie, and Angela)