Meet Michelle Malouf, an Area Support Co-ordinator at the MND Association

Hi Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon runners!

I’m Michelle Malouf and I work at the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

I am an Area Support Co-ordinator and this means I support people living with and affected by motor neurone disease (MND) who live in and around Yorkshire.

You’re reading this because you’ve signed up to run the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, and I want to say a big THANK YOU for taking on this epic challenge in honour of Rob. The MND Association is honoured to be chosen as a charity partner for this event and we couldn’t be more grateful that you are all standing by Rob and helping to raise much-needed awareness of this terrible disease. I have been supporting people living with MND for six years–first when I lived in Australia and then here in the UK since 2020 when I joined the MND Association.

I’m part of a brilliant team who provides support to people affected by the disease right across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to meet and support many people living with MND. It is a devastating disease and there is no cure. Yet, every day, I am inspired by the strength and courage of the people I support and do all I can to make sure their needs are met at every stage of their disease.

This might be through ensuring they have access to the essential group of healthcare professionals at their local MND care centres and networks, talking to families about the support we can provide for their children or perhaps helping them navigate the benefits system. I also work with branches and groups in the Yorkshire area which provide invaluable support to local people affected by MND through regular get-togethers, carers groups–helping them meet others in the same position.

They’re run by incredible volunteers who give so much to support people affected by the disease. I’m sure you’ll get to see many of our volunteers dressed in blue lining the route of the marathon cheering you on–so do give them a wave when you see them! All of this vital work can only happen because people like you choose to support us with your amazing fundraising efforts.

Thank you so much. Good luck with your training!

Michelle