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18 | InTouch January – February | I Touch SUMMER 2024 OUR ANNUAL APPEAL DOES ANOTHER LAP... This year’s Annual Appeal campaign, Miles for Muscles , took place during the week of 21 September, with members nationwide stepping up in support of MDANZ by going the extra mile—literally. FEATURE Above left to right: Mads and Harper Harrison with their family at their walk in Greymouth, Blenheim members raising funds and awareness, Nelson members get ready for their walking challenge and Aidan Brown and his mates at Broadgreen Intermediate’s fundraising day. Members muscle up for our 2024 annual appeal New-look Miles for Muscles is MDANZ’s annual fundraising and awareness campaign, where participants rally support from family and friends before hitting the pavement to log miles. Whether by bike, scooter, or walking, they take on the challenge to raise awareness and funds for those living with muscle-wasting conditions. This year, over 45 passionate fundraisers—comprising members, families, schools, staff, and supporters—signed up to move their muscles, raising an impressive $17,705. The dedication of our participants across New Zealand has been inspiring, helping to shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by Kiwis living with muscular dystrophy. With many families feeling the squeeze of tough economic times, we are especially grateful for the commitment and generosity shown by all who participated and donated. From Greymouth in the West to Orewa Beach in the North, members took on the challenge, biking, scootering, or walking a mile or more with the support of their friends, whānau, and local communities. Our dedicated fieldworkers, Jane Hazlett and Debbie Hoskins also kept busy hosting ‘Walk and Wheel’ events across their regions, ensuring a fun, inclusive atmosphere for all involved.