AFTER losing a family member to Motor Neurone Disease (MND), Deirdra Tindale is determined to play a role in eradicating the degenerative condition.
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The owner-operator of Singleton business Pilates with Deirdra will undertake a number of fundraising initiatives throughout May.
And, with MND Week just wrapping up, she felt it was the ideal time to unveil her own project, MOVE for MND.
"My aim is to get people moving this month while raising awareness and funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association of NSW (MND NSW)," Mrs Tindale said.
"So, I'll be donating all Saturday morning drop-in fees ($10) to the organisation.
"I conduct two classes - Total Barre, a 55-minute full-body workout that incorporates Pilates, dance, strength training and cardio, from 8am; and Mat Pilates, which focuses on strengthening core muscles, at 9am - both at BLU's School of Dance in Pitt Street.
"They are suitable for the beginner to the advanced.
"It's a great opportunity to try something new while donating to a worthy cause.
"I'm also participating in the Run MND in Sutherland Shire on May 26, so I thought this would be a good way of building up fundraising momentum."
Mrs Tindale's uncle was diagnosed with MND in 2015 but, sadly, died in 2017.
"It's a disease with no cure and no effective treatment, which affects thousands of Australians," she explained.
"So, it is definitely close to my heart.
"My uncle was incredibly fit and active - a bodybuilder from a young age and an avid cyclist, swimmer and runner.
"For him to be diagnosed with a disease that affects the body's nervous system, weakening muscles and impacting the body's function, seemed incredibly cruel.
"More research is much-needed.
"And, support for those living with the disease - as well as their families - is required, too.
"I haven't set an official fundraising goal.
"For me, it's as much about getting people moving or thinking about movement (and what life would be like if they didn't have it) as it is the money raised.
"If I could get six people to attend every class for MND it would be great.
"That would mean raising $60 [every class].
"My uncle was 62 when he passed away, so this would be the closest number to his age."
If residents are unable to attend either class, but would still like to help Mrs Tindale, they can make a donation on her fundraising page for Run MND at https://runmndsutherland2019.gofundraise.com.au/page/DeirdraTindale
For more information, visit Facebook - @pilateswithdeirdra or www.pilateswithdeirdra.com