My own personal experience of losing my partner to MND was the driving force in joining the branch and becoming involved in any way possible. After 9 years, I am still here as Secretary, Branch Contact, Association Visitor and MND Connect helpline volunteer. I was also thrilled to be voted in as one of the Trustees of the National Association in September 2009 which means that I am able to be even more involved in decision making that should have a positive impact on people and their families living with Motor Neurone Disease.

I joined the branch and then the Committee in 1991, following my Mum Maureen being diagnosed with MND. She died 18 months later. I remain involved, to help the fight to find a cure for this devastating disease, and to do something to help support people diagnosed with MND, and their families.

I do what I do because living with MND you got no choice but to live life to the maximum. That is why I enjoy my collecting and meeting people.

My brother was diagnosed with MND when he was 36, he died in 2007 aged 38.

Until I was confronted with the reality of the disease I knew very little about it - now I feel motivated to raise awareness and increase the profile of Motor Neurone Disease when I can. Being part of the Merseyside Branch allows me to do that with the support of other positive people who are affected by the disease. We are all working towards the same goal, we welcome people warmly to our meetings and will always help where we can.