Walking for Motor Neurone Disease

3.38.26pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 17th Jul 2006

80 friends and families of Motor Neurone Disease sufferers walked in Bushy Park on Sunday to raise funds. The walk was in honour of Andy Wadge, a Hampton resident who died seven years ago and whose widow Nicky was on the walk. Vincent Cable, MP, a patron of the Motor Neurone Society, spoke to the walkers before the start of the walk. He said:

"MND is one of the worst of all diseases to suffer. Those affected gradually lose control of all their nerves and muscles but are fully conscious and aware of what is happening to them as they gradually become more dependent. With a few exceptions, like Professor Stephen Hawking, sufferers die within five years. I first become aware of the condition as a result of trying to assist Andy Wadge's family with disability grants. Unfortunately, because the condition is rare there is not the same commitment in government to research and care as there is to cancer or stroke. I want to ensure that, both locally and in parliament, there is more awareness."