By Tricia Mifsud
When Kilmore’s Chloe Vines realised there was no longer any government funding available to support the research of Huntington’s disease, she decided to take matters into her own hands.
Ms Vines is organising a fundraising night at Kilmore Trackside on May 15 to contribute money to Huntington’s Victoria, which will help fund research into the disease.
Huntington’s disease is close to Ms Vines’ heart, with both her uncle and grandmother losing their lives to the disease; a genetic neurodegenerative condition that affects the region of the brain that control the way someone thinks, moves and feels.
“Right now, there is no medication for the symptoms and there is no cure … there isn’t enough funding that goes towards Huntington’s disease. There are donations received, but how can others donate if they don’t know about it,” Ms Vines told The Review.
Businesses across the Mitchell Shire, along with others across the state and Australia, have donated items to Chloe’s fundraiser that will be auctioned by Brendan Flynn; real estate agent for Barry Plant Mitchell Shire.
Businesses that have already donated include; Fox on the Run, Fairy Cute, Repco Kilmore, Candy Cupcakes, Broadford Top Pub, Carpet Court and Still and Co Lawyers.
“We’ve had so many people get on board and be willing to help. I’m so grateful that so many people in the community have come together to support the fundraiser,” Ms Vines said.
“I want to help local businesses in return, so on the day we will be handing out packs that not only have pamphlets and information on Huntington’s disease, but the business cards of everyone who has donated will be in the goody bags.
”Although unable to meet her grandmother as she passed away before Ms Vines was born, she was able to spend nine years with her uncle.
In those years, Ms Vines remembers the ‘brother-sister’ relationship she had with him, and the fun, energetic man he was.
“I still find it hard to this day, he wasn’t just my uncle, he was my best friend,” she said.
“He loved fishing, every chance he had, he would be out on the boat with my poppy.
“With me, we would build Lego cars and would race them around. But with Huntington’s, it affects your nervous system, so your brain and spinal cord … this meant he wasn’t able to do all the things he loved.”
While the event is by invitation only, Ms Vines asked anyone who was willing to contribute to the fundraiser – whether it be through donations or are interest in attending – to contact her to find out more details on lightguidancewc@gmail.com. People can find out more about Huntington’s disease by visiting huntingtonsvic.org.au.
