Hi, I’m Joanna Pugh, Sister-in-law to Dan (51 years old). I’ve set this fundraiser up because Dan has recently been diagnosed with MND (Motor Neurone Disease). Dan is a proud and hardworking family man with 3 young children and is happily married to his wife, Miranda. He has been a committed public servant for 30 years and has worked hard to keep the public safe as a police officer in Leicestershire Police, before his retirement last year.

Dan, Miranda and their 3 girls embarked on a new life by emigrating to Australia in November 2024 where Dan joined Queensland police. Dan and Miranda had visited Australia on their honeymoon and wanted to create a new life as a family. However, it was whilst out in Australia that Dan became unwell. Numerous tests left them with suggestions but no firm diagnosis of what might be wrong. Dan, Miranda and the girls left Australia in July 2025 to return to the UK so they could have a support network of close family and friends around them at what was an uncertain time. After more tests and an initial misdiagnosis, Dan was given the terrible news that he has definitely got MND in September 2025. It has been an incredibly tough journey for them. In the short time since Dan arrived back in the UK his condition has deteriorated swiftly. Nine weeks ago he could walk and now he isn’t able to get from his wheelchair to a car seat, even with the aid of support. Dan also struggles with everyday tasks that many of us take for granted such as washing and making your own lunch.

MND is a cruel neurological condition which causes muscle weakness, gradually paralysing your body. Recent headlines have seen Lewis Moody diagnosed with the same disease at the age of 47 so there is no telling when or whom it might strike. Despite the incredible work of other victims of this condition, such as Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow, to raise the profile and the awareness of the devastating effects there is still no cure and typical life expectancy is 2-3 years.

The news of this diagnosis has been devastating to Dan, his immediate, wider family and close friends. Dan has always been a very healthy and fit individual and sailed through the medical that was mandatory before their new life in Australia. He has always been interested in sport when at school and at university he loved competing in Rugby matches. He is a life long Nottingham Forest football club supporter. Dan has also competed in many half marathons in the UK and abroad raising money for charities including the Stroke Association and The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

MND has many complexities as it develops. Dan's symptoms are progressing very quickly and he needs adaptations to the family home so that he can live there such as a wet room on the ground floor. He also now needs specialised equipment to help meet his ever changing needs. An adaptive car that accommodates a wheelchair would enable Dan to attend his medical appointments and go out as a family. It is now our turn to help support Dan and his family and show our appreciation for his work serving the public and helping so many others.

We understand that times are tough but if you are able to give any support with this fundraiser we would be incredibly grateful. It will make a huge difference to Dan as all funding raised will be used to help provide the adaptations and equipment he desperately needs.

If you able to share this it would be incredibly helpful to spread the word.