On Saturday, the 13th of April, we experienced a dazzling spectacle of hope and generosity as over 760 guests gathered for the highly anticipated Matt Gallagher MND Charity Ball. The evening was a resounding success, not only in terms of entertainment and camaraderie but also in its noble mission to raise funds to help those impacted by Motor Neurone Disease.
A Worthy Cause
The Matt Gallagher Foundation is dedicated to supporting those affected by MND, a devastating disease that affects approximately 5,000 people in the UK, claiming five lives every day. Unlike many organizations, we are here to provide immediate, practical support to improve the quality of life for those battling MND. Our latest mission is to fund a specialist NHS nurse for the West Midlands, a critical role that costs £50,000 per year. This nurse will provide much-needed assistance to patients and their families, ensuring they receive timely and effective care.
The MND Charity Ball In Retrospect
The ball began with a warm welcome and a glass of champagne, setting a tone of elegance and excitement. A sumptuous meal followed, with guests enjoying exquisite dishes prepared by top chefs. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with conversations and laughter as people connected over their shared cause.
One of the highlights of the evening was an insightful Q&A session. Experts and individuals affected by MND shared their experiences and knowledge, shedding light on the realities of living with the disease. The night truly came alive with performances by a live band, who kept the energy high with their lively tunes, encouraging everyone to dance and celebrate.
The event featured a series of raffles which sold £19,000 in tickets with stunning prizes, including a brand-new Fiat 500 and a dazzling £1,500 diamond necklace. But the real showstopper was the live auction. Bidders had the chance to win spectacular prizes such as tickets to see Kylie Minogue, Taylor Swift, and Coldplay, exotic holidays to Sri Lanka, the French Riviera, and Portugal, and a framed signed glove donated by boxing champion Tyson Fury. The auction was fast-paced and thrilling, with paddles raised high and hearts racing.
By the end of the night, the generosity of the attendees had far surpassed expectations. An astonishing £328,245.21 was raised, every penny of which will go directly to supporting the local MND community. This incredible sum will not only fund the much-needed MND nurse but also support various other initiatives to assist those living with MND.
Sponsors and Support of the MND Charity Ball
The success of the event, organised by Hollie Mae, was made possible by the support of over 70 organisations and individuals. Sponsors included prominent property companies, local sporting teams from the West Midlands, and even the team from “The Only Way Is Essex.” Their contributions were instrumental in making the evening such a grand success.
The Matt Gallagher Foundation’s Mission
The Matt Gallagher Foundation is inspired by the infectious optimism of Matt Gallagher himself. The foundation aims to provide rapid support and a network of contacts for individuals living with MND. Whether it’s funding mobility vehicles, installing stairlifts, or arranging memorable family holidays, the Foundation understands the urgency of these needs and works tirelessly to fulfill them.
The ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone diagnosed with MND has the support they need to maintain hope and positivity. By raising money and awareness, we strive to lessen the impact of MND on individuals and their families, helping them to lead happy, fulfilled, and dignified lives despite the challenges they face.
A Night of Hope and Generosity
The Matt Gallagher MND Charity Ball was more than just an evening of entertainment; it was a beacon of hope for many. The funds raised will make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by MND, proving once again that when a community comes together with compassion and generosity, remarkable things can happen.
Want to find out more about Matt’s mission to transform the lives of those living with MND? Contact us below!