Since 2015, Jo Moroney has been hosting the Dale’s Day cricket match in honour of her son Dale Kenny.
Sadly, Dale was diagnosed with MND when he was just 28 years old.
“We were pretty shell-shocked at Dale’s MND diagnosis at 28 years old, and had absolutely no idea of where to go or what to do. MND NSW organised and liaised with necessary services and professionals for us,” Jo said.
“Kim Sinclair advocated on Dale’s behalf navigating NDIS and educating everyone involved about MND. We always felt she had our back. Having this kind of support took so much pressure off our family, enabling a better quality of life for Dale’s remaining time with us,” she said.
“Kim and three of Dale’s Carers are still friends with us today. MND NSW responses were always prompt and respectful.”
The idea to raise funds for vital equipment and services to support people living with MND by playing a spot of cricket came from Dale himself.
“Dale had said it would be nice for us all to have a game of cricket, a drink and a sausage sandwich and raise a couple of dollars for MND NSW every second year,” Jo said.
Sadly, Dale passed away after bravely battling MND, but his wish to hold the event has been honoured, taking place in New Lambton in 2015, 2017 and 2019, and then in Taylor’s Arm in 2021, 2023, and will be held once again late this year.
Jo feels the best part about holding the event is the people they meet, and that they are helping others who are facing the challenges of motor neurone disease.
“All the characters and fabulous people we meet and people we have reconnected with. Contributing makes me feel I have done something meaningful for someone else,” Jo said.
“I hope the equipment or services make life easier and a bit more comfortable for people living with MND and those caring for them, and that money donated towards research can provide more effective treatment and hopefully a cure ASAP.”
If you would like to host your own Community Fundraising event for MND NSW like Jo, contact Fundraising Assistant Danielle Allen at