Robin and Mikes’ Drive to cure MND

On September 23rd & 24th Robin and Mike will be driving from the most easterly point in the UK, Ness Point, Lowestoft, to the most westerly, St David’s Head in Wales, and back again. 

They are raising funds for the Norfolk, Norwich and Waveney Branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

They will journey on quieter roads in Robin’s 1936, Austin Opal 7, with a likely travelling time of 12 hours each way, over two days.

Robin and Mike, both members of the Wroxham and Bure Valley Rotary Club will be supported by fellow members and friends.

Robin’s brother, Matthew, and friend, Andrew, will also join them on the western leg of the trip in another Austin 7 and a Morris Minor!

Robin’s father, David, passed away in 2016, aged 82, having been diagnosed with MND only a few months earlier.

Mike’s son, Justin, battled MND for 2 years after diagnosis, and died in January 2023 aged 50.

David had completed restoration of the Austin Opal 7 in 1998 and drove it north to south from John O’Groats to Land’s End for charity.

David was a Rotarian, and spent much of his time raising funds for local and international causes.

Now his son, Robin, will be taking the same little car on the East West East Endurance Drive, raising funds for MND, a fitting tribute to his Father.

His co-driver, Mike, helped care for his son during his MND journey at Justin’s home in Sale, Manchester, along with other family members.

Justin had previously been very fit, enjoying cycling, football, golf and his home gym.

He was a Sales Director with Princes Food Group, based in the Liver Building in Liverpool and his colleagues raised over £50,000 walking 34 miles from Justin’s office to his home in support of MND. This was a huge boost for Justin as his health continued to rapidly deteriorate.

MND causes the Motor Neurones, found in the brain and spine, to stop reaching the muscles in the body, which then weaken and stiffen and over time stop working altogether.

Symptoms can vary in different people. They can effect a sufferer’s ability to move, eat, drink, speak and breathe. There is as yet no cure.

The MND Society, whilst working towards a cure, tirelessly support those on the MND pathway and their families. 

Both Robin and Mike were recipients of this invaluable help and are now hoping to raise £5000 to assist in a cure being found, and give continued support for those who need it.

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