Between 2nd and 3rd June 2022 at Dumpton School, Wimborne, Matt Smith one of our long term club members will be attempting to dribble a football for 24 hours, or 100 miles, to help raise funds for his brother, Paul. In April 2021, Paul was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Matt will have the support of 4 friends, all of whom have known Paul and my family for over 40 years, at various stages during the 24 hours.

All money raised will be split between Paul and the Irish MND Association (IMNDA). Paul has lived in Kilkenny, Ireland, with his wife and two children (aged 8 and 12) for the last 20 years.

Motor Neurone Disease is a Neuro Degenerative Disease (NDD) which essentially means Paul’s central nervous system is unable to send signals to his motor neurones, which are critical to be able to move limbs and control movement. There is no cure for MND.

For 50% of sufferers, life expectancy from diagnosis is less than 3 years and the disease will gradually impact Paul’s ability to use his limbs, be able to speak and in time potentially his ability to breathe unaided.

I thought as a Club it would be great to show our support and also demonstrate we a community club using the power of cricket to help those who need our support.

If you are able to sponsor Matt, he would be very grateful as it will help Paul and his family battle this horrible disease. Donations can be made via the following go fund me page

https://gofund.me/fa0e7fcb

Thanks for reading and huge thanks from Matt in advance for any donations made.