What is motor neurone disease (MND)?
MND stands for motor neurone disease. Motor neurones are the nerves that control our body movement.
With MND, something goes wrong with the motor neurones, and the messages from the brain can’t get through. This means the muscles that help us to move, speak, breathe and swallow stop working normally.
As the nerve cells slowly stop working, muscles gradually weaken and waste.
MND Facts
The majority of people with MND will lose the ability to use their voice.
There is currently no known cause, treatment, or cure. In 90-95% of cases of MND, the cause in unknown.
The average life expectancy after diagnosis is 27 months.
Every day, 2 Australians are diagnosed with MND, and every day 2 Australians die from MND.
Every MND journey is different. The progress, severity and symptoms of MND are different for everyone.
Carolyn, diagnosed with MND in July 2016
“Since my diagnosis, my life has changed a lot. I had to give up everything I loved: my job, my licence, gardening, art and crafts, fancy dress parties with my friends, even being able to hold my grandbabies.”
Carolyn sadly lost her battle with MND in October 2022. Carolyn was a wonderful advocate of Shut Up! For MND and believed in raising awareness and funds through such a bold campaign. She is sorely missed.
MND Victoria's vision is 'The best care until the world is free of MND.’
We cannot wait until the day we are no longer required because an effective treatment or cure has been found. But until that day is realised, we will continue providing the best possible care and support to those living with MND, now and in the future.
Because until there’s a cure, there’s care.