8 August 2024 News
A day at Peppa Pig World for families affected by motor neurone disease (MND) has created ‘memories that will not be forgotten’ with vital awareness also being raised.
On 25 July, almost 100 people were greeted at the entrance of Paulton's Park in Hampshire – official home of every child’s favourite Pig - by local MND Association volunteers.
Their tickets, funded by the MND Association, covered a whole day of fun at the Park, lunch, an array of craft activities and the opportunity to meet other families and children affected by the disease.
There were also goody bags, containing MND Association t-shirts to wear in the Park, a water bottle, stress balls and a gift card to spend in the shop.
Despite torrential rain, the great British weather did not spoil the event and there were many people in blue heading around the Park in waterproof ponchos.
Jeff McGuinness, who attended the day with his family, said: “Thank you so much for a great, albeit wet, day. The memories that were made will not be forgotten.”
Caroline Motson also added: “Thank you to you and the team for organising this day out! My mum had a wonderful day with her grandchildren - it's the first time she's smiled in weeks.
“Additionally, the support you have shown my eight-year-old daughter with the resources you've sent in the post and have available online have made all the difference.
“She spends considerable time supporting me to care for my mum which is a lot for anyone, let alone an eight-year-old.
“She's even found the confidence to talk about MND in her school assembly to raise awareness. Thank you for all that you do to help families living with MND - you're amazing.”
The family day also provided an opportunity to raise awareness, with an Association stand at the entrance giving visitors to the Park chance to ask questions and donate.
Laura Willix, Children and Young People’s Service Development Manager at the MND Association, said: “The feel of the day was great and there was so much sharing of experience and support, but also laughter and fun.
“Never underestimate the power of just being with others who are in the same situation as you and the strength this can bring.
“One of the highlights was seeing one family whose grandmother has MND and was in a wheelchair, doing the conga with her children and grandchildren in the rain!
“The volunteers were exceptional, and we couldn’t have done it without them. They manned rooms, directed families and stayed all day.”
Emily Akerman, Children Young People and Families Project Worker, added: “The weather just became an added team member who helped prove just how resilient the MND community are.
“It could have been thunder and lightning or golf ball hailstones and I bet they still would have been out there making memories - it was an incredible day.
“I want to thank the volunteers for all their efforts in making the day possible and I hope that everyone who attended had a great day.”
