Exeter fundraiser targets landmark sum
A MUM-of-two who started fundraising for the Motor Neurone Disease Association after the death of her father is hoping to smash the £10,000 mark this summer.
Debbie Browning, 28, has organised fun days, parties and raffles over the past five years to raise vital funds for the Exeter and East Devon branch of the charity.
She decided to help after her dad, Paul — a Parcelforce worker and stand-up comedian at the former Queen’s pub at Polsloe Bridge — died from the disease at the age of 47.
He had been diagnosed with MND in December 2003 and died just six months later.
This summer, Debbie, who moved back to Exeter from Kent last year, is organising a sponsored family bike ride, a booze cruise and another family fun day at the Cat & Fiddle.
She said: “The Motor Neurone Disease Association were so good when my dad was ill that I really wanted to give something back and do what I could to help them.
“Because motor neurone disease is such a rare disease it doesn’t really get a lot of support. I think the people that have been affected by it need to do what they can.”
Motor neurone disease is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that attacks the upper and lower motor neurones.
Degeneration of the motor neurones leads to weakness and wasting of muscles, causing increasing loss of mobility in the limbs, and difficulties with speech, swallowing and breathing.
The cause of MND is unknown and there is no known cure.
Cynthia Hopkins, Exeter and East Devon MNDA spokeswoman, said: “Debbie has been magnificent. She is young, she is vibrant, she is feisty. We call her ‘Fun Day Debbie’.
“She has got a larger than life personality very similar to her dad’s. she invites loads of her friends, gets load of support — she is just brilliant.”
The sponsored family bike ride and walk will take place on Sunday, July 19, starting at 11am from the Malt House Harvester pub in Haven Banks and ending at the Double Locks.
Children are invited to gain sponsorship, to help raise much needed funds to support people living locally with MND. Anyone wishing to take part should contact Debbie on 07880 557581.
The MNDA is organising a number of other events this summer for supporters. For more information, contact them on 01395 225 227.
3 Comments
by Alexandra, Exeter
Tuesday, July 07 2009, 3:28PM
“Yes Debbie I would be interested in some information. How do I contact you?”
by Debbie Browning, Exeter
Monday, July 06 2009, 11:32PM
“Thank you Alexandra, if you would like to get involved in this event or would like information on upcoming events please contact me.”
by Alexandra, Exeter
Monday, July 06 2009, 9:24AM
“Keep up the good work Debbie. I know what Motor Neurone Disease is like as I watch my Nan die with it. She went from someone who was always active to someone who was slumped in the chair in 18 months. More needs to be done towards this disease as it is horrible to watch. I thank everyone who helped make my nan comfortable during her time. Debbie congratulations on raising so much.”