Tasty way to raise money for MS

Tasty way to raise money for MS

29 April 2015

JO-ANN Welby has watched her mum struggle with distressing symptoms of multiple sclerosis since she was diagnosed five years ago.

Suffering from memory loss and pain, she says her mum Jacquie’s diagnosis has had a massive impact on their family as she has lost her independence.

Jo-Ann is hoping to make a difference to others suffering from the disease by hosting a cake break in her family’s Newcastle cafe from Friday, May 15-17.

During that time, she will sell special MS cupcakes, collect donations and organise a raffle at Cafe Creme with all proceeds donated to the MS Society.

Her event will help fund research, which she said would give everyone hope for the future and hopefully bring an end to MS altogether one day.

“I’m really looking forward to hosting this cake break to raise funds for a charity close to my heart,” she said.

“Sadly, we’ve witnessed our mum go from a fiercely independent, active lady to someone who needs full time care. 

“Like many people with MS, my mum’s MS is unpredictable and she’s struggling with many distressing symptoms like memory loss and pain. It’s had a big effect on our family and sadly there just isn’t enough support out there.

“I wish there was a wonder pill – something that could bring our old mum back but unfortunately there isn’t one.”

The Newcastle event is part of a wider campaign aimed at raising over £300,000 around the UK to support people living with multiple sclerosis which attacks the central nervous system causes symptoms such as problems with mobility and balance, vision, dizziness and fatigue.

Samantha Creighton, community fundraiser at the MS Society said she hoped others would also take part in Cake Break. 

“This is a delicious way to fundraise for people affected by MS throughout Northern Ireland and provides a great opportunity for people to get together and spend quality time with friends and family,” she said.

“This year the money we raise will towards funding life-changing MS research; supporting our helpline and providing grants and short breaks for individuals and families affected by MS.”

To sign up for a free fundraising pack or for more information about Cake Break, visit www.cakebreak.org.uk or call 0845 481 1577. Lines are open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday.