The Motor Neurone Association is raising awareness through their ‘Month for Optimism’ campaign which will run throughout June. The campaign will be fronted by ‘Team Optimism’ made up of seven inspirational people living with the disease who have as their mission to make June 2012 a month for Optimism– the idea being that “if we can … anyone can”. The Month for Optimism June 2012 will be lighting up parts of London with illuminated posters on the underground and on the National Rail networks. The posters featuring five of the members of Team Optimism will confront people with the hard facts about MND and the incredible optimism of people who live with the disease.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting. MND can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe. However, not all symptoms necessarily happen to everyone and it is unlikely they will all develop at the same time, or in any specific order. Although there is currently no cure for MND, symptoms can be managed to help you achieve the best possible quality of life. The Motor Neurone Disease Association offers a wide range of support, care and services for those suffering with MND.

Tracey said: “I am supporting the MND association in their awareness month because they offer excellent care and support to those living with MND. I feel it is important to know that care, support and advice are all available to those diagnosed with MND and with thanks to the Mid Kent branch this is all available to people living in and around Chatham & Aylesford. Both the local and national branch work hard in supporting people with MND and I wish them all the best with their awareness month”

The local mid Kent branch are a committee of volunteers who meet every six weeks to help and support people in mid Kent living with MND. They will have a stand outside the Information Centre in Rochester High Street for the week commencing 25th June to help raise awareness. The branch undertakes fund raising events throughout the year, with their next being the Christmas Bazaar in November.

For more information about the different events and activities organised by the MND Mid Kent branch please visit: www.midkentmnd.freeuk.com