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January – February InTouch | 19 SUMMER 2024 InTouch | DO IT YOUR WAY Above left to right: CallumHedge, ambassador, with his racing hat, Hawke’s Bay members off for their“Walk andWheel”event, Aidan Brown and his family at his schools’challenge, Sonny Ebdale at Orewa Beach School and Gisborne members having a challenge quiz and morning tea. MEMBERS MUSCLE UP FOR OUR 2024 ANNUAL APPEAL 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. Schools joined the effort too, with Orewa Beach Primary and Broadgreen Intermediate holding “Wheels Days” in support of students Sonny Ebdale and Aidan Brown, both of whom live with muscular dystrophy. National Executive Chairperson, Trevor Jenkin, praised the efforts: “We were once again blown away by the commitment of our members, especially during these challenging times. Seeing people come together to support our cause is always heartwarming.” Special recognition goes to Zoe Ellery, who led the fundraising pack with an incredible $4,535. Zoe’s motivation was personal, raising money and awareness for others like herself who live with muscular dystrophy. The top team, Team Roth Shank, raised an outstanding $2,100. Their efforts, driven by the friends and whānau of young member Eden, recently diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, were remarkable. As we wrap up another successful annual appeal, the funds raised will go directly towards essential services for our members (in their region), ensuring they receive the support they need to meet their unique challenges. Even from across the globe, our Ambassador, Callum Hedge, lent his support by dedicating his Music City Grand Prix race in Tennessee to the appeal. We also extend our thanks to our key partners—One Technology, Datam, and Rothbury Insurance—whose sponsorship and prize donations were instrumental in this year’s campaign. A special shout-out to Mads and Harper Harrison, our campaign’s promotional faces, for their fundraising efforts yet again, and the time they dedicated to making the campaign lively and real. By Kristin Cross