THE MNDA North Wilts Group hosted its annual Thanksgiving Party earlier this month.

The event is organised so that the Group can say thank you to all those who have helped raise money, as well as awareness for the disease during the last year and beyond.

Paul Wilkinson who suffers from MND delivered a speech about how his positive attitude to life has helped curb the debilitating effects of motor neurone disease.

A number of long-serving volunteers were awarded with prizes for their tireless efforts, including Jo Hyde, of Prospects House, for her continued support to the Group and her efforts in maintaining a close link between the hospice and the Group, former Group chairman Bob Perry was honoured for his many years of service and leadership of the group, Anne Collison was honoured for her tireless fundraising efforts and Michael Armstrong, Group Treasurer, was recognised for his long service.

Swindon South MP Robert Buckland also made an appearance.

He spoke to those affected by the cruel disease and agreed to sign the group’s charter to help ensure that the government delivers on its promises and provides the most effective care to those suffering with MND.

The aim of the charter is to make sure all people with MND receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time. That’s why we ask everyone to step up and sign the MND Charter to ensure everyone is working towards this vision.

A link to the full charter can be found at www.mndassociation.org/Resources/MNDA/Campaigns/Documents/MNDA_Charter_5_pages.pdf