A fundraising event dedicated to finding a cure for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is set to return this month, inspired by the memory of Janine Turnbull, a beloved mother from North Tyneside who passed away in August. Janine’s family and friends have raised over £45,000 to support research into MND, with an ambitious goal of reaching £50,000 through further events, including the Whitley Wander.
Janine was remembered fondly at her funeral, attended by a large gathering at St Alban’s Church in Earsdon and the nearby village hall. A former police officer and a figure of the community, her legacy continues through the ongoing fundraising efforts spearheaded by her family. Her sister, Nicole Brown, expressed that the fight for a cure will not cease until one is found.
“People shouldn’t have to go through the horror that Janine went through,” Nicole stated. She reflected on the emotional toll of the disease, noting how families begin to grieve even before the loss occurs. “Every day that you have is the best day that you’re going to have with her,” she added. Nicole emphasized that while Janine’s battle is over, efforts to support others diagnosed with MND are crucial.
The Whitley Wander will take place on January 24, 2025, starting at 11:00 a.m. outside Spanish City in Whitley Bay. The event is designed to be accessible for all community members, encouraging participation from families and individuals alike. Nicole believes that her sister would have appreciated the spirit of togetherness fostered by such gatherings. “I think she’d want us to meet up and laugh and smile and connect,” she said.
Dominic McDonough, representing the MND Association, praised the community’s commitment to this cause. “It is fantastic to see the local community coming together once again for the Whitley Wander to raise funds for the MND Association in memory of Janine,” he remarked. He expressed gratitude to Janine’s family and friends for their relentless support in funding MND research.
The funds raised so far are being utilized for research at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN). There, interdisciplinary teams of scientists and clinicians collaborate to develop treatments, enhance patient quality of life, and understand the mechanisms of the disease.
The impact of events inspired by Janine has been significant. McDonough highlighted that the awareness raised and the financial support provided are helping countless individuals affected by MND.
Additional fundraising events are also on the horizon. A gig featuring Janine’s husband, John Turnbull, and his band, Pirates, is scheduled for February 21 at King Street Social Club in Tynemouth. Furthermore, a Christmas single released by the Rush family raised over £1,000 during the festive season.
As the community rallies together for the Whitley Wander, the spirit of Janine Turnbull continues to inspire hope and determination in the fight against MND.
