To mark 40 years of MND New South Wales this year, we are highlighting 40 years of stories from our members, staff, volunteers and experts.
You can help MND NSW continue supporting people with motor neurone disease by making a donation to our Winter Appeal here.
Elliot was diagnosed with MND at just 19 years of age. He was enjoying his first semester at university and working one day a week at a local financial advisory firm.
The early signs for Elliot that something was wrong were frightening.
Elliot would take the elevator instead of climbing a small flight of stairs. His friend would make fun of him as it seemed silly and a waste of time.
A few days later, Elliot was walking down a busy street with his mate and he fell over. It was such a simple fall that onlookers thought he was just drunk.
With the help of his friend and a stranger, he got back up. We didn’t know it at the time, but this weakening of his left calf was only the beginning of his tragedy.
From then on there were several incidents where Elliot would fall over uncontrollably. His legs would collapse and he struggled to walk up small flights of stairs.
In those moments when he struggled, Elliot avoided the gaze of onlookers and did the best he could.
But he knew something was just not right.
A short time later, on what was otherwise a normal day, his Dad dropped Elliot off at work. However that day, Elliot could only limp to the stairs. He stopped at the base of them and then turned, struggled back, eyes filling with tears, he said to his Dad “take me home.”
That day was Elliot’s last day at work and sadly he was never to return.
Elliot’s condition progressed rapidly and without warning. The care and support that he needed was immediate and significant. As you know, MND affects everyone differently and often it’s hard to predict how much support someone will need, or when they will need it.
Sadly, after an eight-month battle with MND, Elliot passed away at just 19 years of age.
Elliot was taken from us far too soon. It’s a heartbreaking situation for anyone to have to face, but especially for a young man who’s only just beginning his life.
That’s why vital equipment, support and guidance from MND NSW is so important.
Stories like Elliot’s are why we do what we do. It’s why we’ve been there for over 40 years advocating for and supporting people living with MND and their families. Thank you for helping us make an important difference and be there for people facing MND for as long as they need us.