Since her mum was diagnosed with motor neurone disease over a year ago, Port Macquarie local Nicole Potter has supported MND NSW by joining local Walk to Defeat MND events nearby - including Coffs Harbour in 2025, Hunter 2026 and is back for Port Macquarie this October.
She has been inspired to volunteer at Walk to Defeat MND Port Macquarie by her mum’s battle with MND, and after seeing the support MND NSW has given to her cousin’s wife, who is also currently living with MND.
“No family should go through what they’re going through, especially without good support,” Nicole said.
“Mum was diagnosed in January last year, and she’s based in Victoria. So she makes a call every day if not every second to see how Mum and Dad are going, and try’s to travel down to see them every 8-10 weeks. I’m always worried about the day I make a call and don’t get to hear her voice again.”
“MND is a horrid, horrid disease. Mum is so switched on, so it’s hard to see her want to get out and do things, but not be able to do what she used to. At the moment if she does too much she could need the next three days to recover. Her and dad have been married 56 years and are so used to doing everything together, but now suddenly that’s not always possible.”
Nicole is currently busy raising awareness, handing out flyers and fundraising for the event, holding 1-50 number boards at work and amongst family, in addition to receiving donations through her Walk to Defeat MND Port Macquarie fundraising page.
“My cousin’s wife has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease also, and the support she’s received from MND NSW has been outstanding. She is now in a wheelchair and has a PEG feed in, and has had so much support where they’re based down in Singleton,” Nicole said.
Originally from Victoria, Nicole has been living in the Port Macquarie area for over 15 years and knows the incredible things the local community can achieve when they come together, and how important it is for people to speak out on MND to raise awareness about the devastating disease.
“It’s important to raise awareness about motor neurone disease and how it affects people in differently and at all ages. Coming from Victoria we’ve grown up with Neale Daniher sharing his experiences with MND, now Jai Arrow in NSW is speaking about his experience, as well as so many inspirational humans just going about their business, celebrity or not,” Nicole said.
“Mum and dad are coming up to attend Walk to Defeat MND Port Macquarie – I know mum wouldn’t miss it for the world!” she said.
“I’d really encourage everyone to get involved in the Walk, and just get on down there and join in on the day - the winners in the end are people with MND.”
You can join Nicole in supporting families facing MND, at Walk to Defeat MND Port Macquarie from 10am on Sunday October 25 at Westport Park, Port Macquarie. Find out more or sign up for the event here.
