The Motor Neuron Disease Association of South Africa

Our Mission - To provide compassionate support, practical resources, and advocacy for individuals living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and their families, carers, and healthcare professionals. The Motor Neurone Disease Association of South Africa (MNDA of SA) is committed to enhancing the lives of those affected by MND. Our network connects patients, carers, and healthcare providers to promote understanding, build resilience, and foster a supportive community. We align with the global MND Alliance, working collaboratively to improve care and raise awareness.

We provide support for Patients and Families: We provide practical guidance for individuals diagnosed with MND and their loved ones. Our support includes one-on-one consultations, access to educational resources, and referrals to specialists to address individual needs. Device support for those who are unable to afford supportive equipment .

We strengthening Healthcare Networks : We collaborate with healthcare providers to improve MND care and ensure timely diagnosis. We share the latest research, treatment approaches, and best practices through workshops and seminars. Resources and partnerships with the medical community enhance empathetic, high-quality care delivery.

Pictured below: Family members of those suffering from MND.

A list of our needs:

Financial Support in the form of donations

Fundraising contacts to assist with the sustainable continuation of our services to our MND Community
Assistive devices – beds, special mattresses, wheelchairs, hoists, bipaps.

Contact person and their/Cell/Landline: 083 467 8018 Dr Lienka Botha or Dayna- Naidooemail is info@mndasouthafrica.org

Physical Address: We serve patients ACROSS SOUTH AFRICA. We have advisors covering the Eastern Cape and Garden Route. Our head office is 9 Logan Way, WBHO House Ground floor G02, Pinelands, 7450

Pictured below : A member of our team.

Banking details for those who wish to donate :

- Bank: Standard bank

- Account Name The Motor Neuron Disease Association of South Africa

- Account Number: 270629130

- Branch Code: 5009

- SWIFT code: SBZA ZA JJ

- Account Type: Current

- Reference: Algoa Cares – Name Surname.

Please email your Proof of payment to info@mndasouthafrica.org so we can provide you with a Tax Receipt for your wonderful donation.

WHAT IS MND?

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) was first described in the 1850’s by French Neurologists. In 1874 Prof Jean-Martin Charcot called it Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), its usual name in the USA. There it is also known as ‘Lou Gehrig’s Disease’ named after a pre-war star of the New York Yankees baseball team. Motor Neurone Disease is the term generally used in Europe. Motor Neurones These are the millions of nerve fibres that go from the brain's cortex (grey matter) to the muscles in the trunk and limbs.

There are two groups (1) Upper motor neurones which start with cell bodies in the cortex and pass down through the brain to the spinal cord and connect with (2) Lower motor neurones which have their cell bodies in the spinal cord and brain stem and then pass out into the periphery forming nerve fibres going to muscle fibres. The strength and smoothness of movement and the bulk of muscles depend on the integrity of these nerve fibres.