My name is Jeremy Tettmar, and I would like to share a story about a charity that has become deeply important to both my wife, Sharon, and me. Motor Neurone Disease (MND) has touched our family personally, and it continues to inspire our commitment to raising awareness and vital funds. I hope this account may be included in the January edition of the Provincial magazine.

Understanding Motor Neurone Disease

Motor Neurone Disease is a fatal and rapidly progressing neurological condition that affects more than 5,000 adults in the UK at any given time. It occurs when the motor neurones in the brain and spinal cord gradually stop sending signals to the muscles. As these muscles weaken, stiffen, and waste away, individuals become trapped in a failing body—unable to move, speak, and eventually unable to breathe.

While MND does not usually affect sight, hearing, or touch, it can alter behaviour and thinking, and in some cases lead to a rare form of dementia. The statistics are stark:

• A third of people diagnosed will die within a year
• More than half will die within two years
• A person’s lifetime risk of developing MND is 1 in 300
• Every day, six people are diagnosed and six people die from the disease
• There is currently no cure

Vice President of the Mid Kent Branch of MNDA, Colin Thompson Right receiving the cheque from me, Jeremy Tettmar

A Personal Reason to Make a Difference

In 2019, I had the honour of taking the Chair of King Solomon in Durobrivae Lodge No. 6956 at Howard Hall, Gillingham. When discussing charitable giving for my year in office, Sharon asked if we could support the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA). Her father had passed away from MND on 28 November 1986, and the cause has remained close to her heart ever since.

What we thought would be a single year in the Chair soon became three, due to the unexpected arrival of Covid and the resulting lockdowns. This extended period gave us even more opportunity to raise funds for MNDA.

The Whisky Raffle – A Simple Idea with a Big Impact

To boost our fundraising, I launched a dedicated “MND Master’s Whisky Raffle.” At every Lodge meeting and social event, Sharon and I purchased a bottle of single malt whisky to raffle, with every penny raised going directly to MNDA.

When I eventually left the Chair, I was fortunate to be able to continue the raffle. Our efforts resulted in a donation of £1,800 to MNDA.

Sadly, the Lodge then suffered a poignant loss when long‑standing member Ron Pritchard lost his son to MND. This strengthened our resolve to continue supporting the charity.

Joining Forces for a Greater Cause

More recently, we have teamed up with City of Rochester Lodge No. 7941, whose Master, Darren Burch, has also launched a whisky raffle in support of MNDA. Other Lodges have kindly contributed during festive boards when I sing the Master’s Song and the Ladies’ Song, and we are grateful for every donation received.

A Special Night – And a Significant Donation

Four and a half years after leaving the Chair, we had the great pleasure of welcoming the Vice President of the Mid Kent Branch of MNDA, Colin Thompson, and his wife Sheila, to a White Table event held on 3 December at Howard Hall. The turnout was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and supportive.

During the evening, the Charity Steward of City of Rochester Lodge, Allen Williams, spoke movingly about his own family’s experience with MND and announced that his Lodge would be making an annual contribution to MNDA.

The highlight of the night was the presentation of a cheque for £5,470 to the Mid Kent Branch of MNDA — a moment that filled everyone present with pride and hope.

Looking Ahead

Both Lodges are committed to continuing their fundraising efforts for MNDA. Our hope is simple: that through continued support, research will one day find a cure for this devastating disease.