A fundraising event aimed at supporting research for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) will take place this month in memory of North Tyneside resident Janine Turnbull, who passed away in August 2023. Her family has committed to raising funds until a cure for the disease is discovered, continuing her legacy and honoring her struggle.
Janine’s funeral drew a significant turnout, with mourners gathering at St Alban’s Church in Earsdon and the nearby village hall. As a former police officer and a well-known member of her community, she inspired her family and friends to raise over £45,000 for MND research, alongside £17,000 for essential modifications to their home to accommodate her condition.
Janine’s sister, Nicole Brown, expressed her determination to keep the fundraising efforts alive. “People shouldn’t have to go through the horror that Janine went through,” she stated. Nicole reflected on the emotional toll of MND, saying, “With MND, you begin grieving that person’s death from the time of diagnosis.” She emphasized that while it is too late for Janine, the ongoing efforts could benefit future patients.
The upcoming event, the Whitley Wander, is set for January 24, 2025, commencing outside Spanish City in Whitley Bay at 11:00. The walk aims to foster community spirit and accessibility, encouraging participants of all ages to join in.
Dominic McDonough from the MND Association praised the community’s commitment. He remarked, “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.” The funds raised so far are being allocated to research conducted at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), where multidisciplinary teams work on developing treatment options and improving patient quality of life.
“The research that has been funded and the awareness raised at events inspired by Janine is helping countless people with MND,” McDonough continued, expressing gratitude to everyone involved.
In addition to the Whitley Wander, other fundraising activities are planned, including a performance by Janine’s husband, John Turnbull, whose band, Pirates, will play at King Street Social Club in Tynemouth on February 21. A Christmas charity single released by the Rush family raised over £1,000 during the festive season, further contributing to the cause.
As the community comes together to honor Janine’s memory, her family remains hopeful that their efforts will one day lead to a cure for MND, ensuring that no one else has to endure the hardships associated with the disease.
