So, when he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease at just 50, it was hard to believe. Todd had already lost his mum to MND, so we knew what this disease could do. But nothing prepares you for hearing that diagnosis of your life partner.
Since the first symptom onset, Todd's progression has been rapid. For him, it started in his lower limbs and has travelled up his body. Within 10 months, he was in a wheelchair permanently, and so began the dramatic loss of independence. As he loses more of his upper body strength and his respiratory system is compromised, the greater his reliance is on me.
"The speed at which Todd has been robbed of his mobility and independence is staggering.
Within the space of a year, he has gone from running and cycling for hours to now just having enough strength to control his electric wheelchair."
IMAGE: © WEST AUSTRALIAN NEWSPAPERS LIMITED |
But being a wife isn’t all I am. I’m also a mum.
Raising our daughters through this, supporting them, helping them process their emotions, making sure they feel seen and heard, is just as important as supporting Todd. We’re all trying to stay strong for each other.
Some days, that’s easier than others. It’s not always simple to juggle the needs of our family, but making sure Todd feels included, valued, and respected while also being there for our girls, that’s just what families do. This is what love looks like.
That’s why the Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA has been so important to us. They were there from the beginning, helping us understand the disease, answering questions, checking in, and offering support tailored to us.
More than anything, they made sure we never felt alone.
They also introduced me to other people who are living through this too, other wives, husbands, and family members who understand the emotional rollercoaster, the practical challenges, the quiet grief that comes with slowly losing someone you love while they’re still beside you. That sense of community has meant so much.
Knowing we’re not doing this alone, that we’re part of a wider MND family, gives me strength on the harder days. It reminds me that even in this, there is kindness, compassion and connection.
That’s why I hope you’ll support MNDAWA this tax time.
Every person facing MND, and every family walking alongside them, deserves the support we’ve received. Your donation helps provide equipment, expert guidance, emotional care, and connection. It helps ensure that no one has to navigate this cruel disease by themselves.
You might not be able to stop MND. But you can help make sure people like us feel supported, understood and cared for.
Please give before 30 June. Your donation is tax-deductible, and it helps give something MND can’t take away: support, dignity, and hope.