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12 | InTouch SUMMER 2025 OUR ANNUAL APPEAL DOES ANOTHER LAP FEATURE Members muscle up for our 2025 Annual Appeal 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, 25 passionate fundraisers, comprising of members, Team Carter. families, schools, staff, and supporters, signed up to move their muscles, raising an impressive $8,893! 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. 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 Jacqui McCann, who led the individual fundraising pack with an incredible $1,347. Jacqui’s motivation was personal, and as a “carrier of Beckers Muscular Dystrophy and with two brothers who have it, I’d like to do what I can to help”. The top team, Team Suzanne Carter , raised an outstanding $3,097! Their efforts, driven by the friends and whānau of young member Benjamin, a Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy warrior, were remarkable. As we wrap up another successful annual appeal, the funds raised will go directly towards essential services for our members ensuring they receive the support they need to meet their unique challenges. We also extend our thanks to our key partners, One Technology 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. This year’s Annual Appeal campaign, Miles for Muscles, took place during the week of 20 October, with members nationwide stepping up in support of MDA by going the extra mile.