This article was originally published on 8 June 2023 by Midland Express.
Arcare Castlemaine is hosting a Big Freeze Fundraiser to raise money for motor neurone disease research this Friday and invites the local community to come along and show their support.
Although the event has passed, you can still donate to the local Arcare team online at hub.fightmnd.org.au/diy-big-freeze-9/arcare-castlemaine-fightmnd-1
Three staff members, Patrick Merrin (maintenance), Laura Sveicere (reception/administration) and Peter Dolan (physiotherapist), will be bravely facing the chilly waters of the dunking tank to raise important funds for Fight MND on the day and there will be hot dogs, hot soup and hot jam donuts to warm participants and the crowd afterwards.
FightMND is Australia’s largest funder of MND research determined to find an effective treatment and ultimately a cure for motor neurone disease.
The trio said that being footy season and with the focus on the upcoming ninth instalment of ‘The Big Freeze at the G’ Melbourne v Collingwood match on Monday June 12 they wanted to hold a local fundraiser to coincide with the AFL event.
The trio is confident a few more team members will put their hands up and join in the fun for this very worthy cause.
“A number of other staff members have vowed to brave the tank and our residents are excited to throw the footy at the target and attempt to dunk us for the cause!” Patrick said.
Residence manager Catherine McDonald said community engagement was an integral part of Arcare’s value system.
“Being a home of avid footy fans, Arcare Castlemaine residents and team have jumped on board to make this MND fundraiser a community event. We encourage everyone to visit us and join in the fun,” McDonald said.
Arcare resident Dot Farley told the Express she told Patrick if he was willing to take the plunge she’d pull the lever!
“It’s a wonderful cause,” Dot said.
The event will kick off at Arcare Castlemaine at 25 Maldon Road McKenzie Hill about 1.30pm Friday and all are welcome to attend.
You can donate to the local Arcare team on the day or online at hub.fightmnd.org.au/diy-big-freeze-9/arcare-castlemaine-fightmnd-1
Local residents can also show their support by ordering Big Freeze merchandise such as beanies, socks and scarves at fightmnd.org.au
All funds raised support research into MND.