WHO WE ARE
IAN PRATT
Founder & MND Angel
Ian Pratt, the founder of the foundation, was determined to leave his mark, to support those affected by MND, and to raise crucial funds for research into a cure.
Ian sadly passed away in 2020, but his enduring legacy and vision of hope that the world will one day be free of MND lives on through the foundation.
Fortunately, in life, I had worked hard, played hard, saved for a rainy day and travelled extensively so my bucket list was empty other than for the things money can’t buy like seeing Georgiana grow up and spend time growing old with my best friend Catherine.
We are under no illusion of the devastating nature of this disease, it has slowly deprived me of my ability to walk, to move, to eat, to talk and to breathe without assistance.
At some point, Motor Neurone Disease will rob my beautiful daughter Georgiana of her Daddy. I know that I may not live long enough to see Georgiana grow up and I may not be there to support, encourage and protect her.
My wife Catherine has become my arms, my legs and my voice as I increasingly struggle with simple day to day tasks. She is my absolute star, without motivation, my candle would have extinguished long ago.
Reflecting on his diagnosis, Ian penned the following statement:
On the 10th of September 2012 at the age of 42 I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. My diagnosis followed months of tests that were triggered by some muscle cramps and fasciculations dating back to 2008. The most significant indicator that something was seriously wrong was when I lost 20kgs with no apparent cause.
The words “in my heart of hearts, I believe that you have a slow-progressing form of Motor Neurone Disease” were delivered by Professor Pamela Shaw. Catherine and I were devastated. All I wanted to do was pick my little Georgiana up from nursery and hug her like I had no tomorrow because at that point I knew that my tomorrows were indeed limited.
My first year living with the disease was by far my toughest emotionally. Each milestone in the year that we all celebrate I would wonder if it were my last. It wasn’t uncommon to burst into tears for no apparent reason other than this vile disease taking hold.
I want to raise awareness of this insidious disease and live in hope that a cure will be found to prevent it from devastating other families as it has mine.
Motor Neurone Disease is not selective on who it attacks.
We established the Ian Pratt MND Foundation to support families, raise awareness of this vile disease and work together to help find a cure.
MEET THE TEAM
CATHERINE MCGAW-PRATT
Trustee
As Ian's wife and a trustee on the foundation, I'm on a mission to keep Ian's vision alive. Having experienced the daily challenges of MND as a family, I understand why it's crucial to raise awareness and fundraise for a cure.
Amidst the struggles, we've surprisingly found some silver linings – deep and meaningful friendships that have turned into a makeshift family. Our annual fundraising events are more than just gatherings; they're like lively family reunions, bringing together incredible people who play a crucial role in keeping Ian's legacy alive.
I'm hopeful that, by embracing Ian's passion, we're edging closer to that much-needed cure. Every day in this journey, I see the Ian Pratt MND Foundation spreading hope among MND Warriors, Angels, and their families. Together, we're making a difference.
SARAH LANNIE
Trustee
I first met Ian through social media in 2012, just after his MND diagnosis. Our bond was immediate, and he became an incredible source of strength for me during the difficult time when my husband, Steve, passed away from MND. Our conversations, often stretching into the early hours, were filled with shared dreams and aspirations for individuals and families grappling with MND. Little did we know that these late-night talks would evolve into the foundation we now know as the Ian Pratt MND Foundation.
Ian was not just a friend; he became a cherished part of my family. Every day, I feel the absence of my dear mate, and I consider myself blessed to have shared not only a friendship but genuine family bond with him. I remain eternally grateful for his unwavering friendship and love.
KARL RICHARDSON
Trustee
As a trustee and Ian's mate, I closely witnessed the progression of and challenges that MND had on Ian’s life. Seeing firsthand the toll that this disease took on him ignited my commitment to follow his vision of finding a cure for this insidious disease.
Ian and I were good mates, enjoying outings to pubs, festive family gatherings, and an annual walk from Edale to Silkstone alongside a group of mates. I distinctly recall Ian first mentioning the aching in his legs after one of these walks, a topic we ribbed him about; little did we know it was an early sign of MND symptoms.
These casual outings, lively pub visits, and the parties Ian hosted created cherished memories that highlight the depth of our connection. Organising the yearly walk is now a heartfelt way to honour Ian's memory and continue the legacy that defined our friendship.
RICHARD DAWSON
Trustee
I take pride in serving as a trustee for the Ian Pratt MND Foundation (IPMNDF). I first met Ian in 2013 when he joined us on the BIGMNDRACE, he was my roomy and it marked the beginning of a friendship that flourished through various events and annual Swim the Solent gatherings, intensifying my dedication to our cause.
My connection to MND is deeply personal, initiated by my father's battle with the disease in 2001. This led me to spearhead fundraising efforts, raising over £30,000 through initiatives like the 2012 3 Peaks Challenge. In 2013, my involvement in the BIGMNDRACE fostered unity among MNDA, MND Scotland, and multiple branches, highlighting our shared commitment.
As the key organiser of the Swim the Solent Kayak Team, I play an active role in organising the event. Driven by my personal ties to MND and Ian, I am relentlessly dedicated to working towards finding a cure.
JOHNNY BEARDSMORE
Trustee
I am honoured to serve as a trustee for the Ian Pratt MND Foundation. My journey with the foundation commenced as an avid participant, both raising funds and immersing myself in the challenging Swim the Solent event, then as a swimmer, and now as kayak support.
I was vaguely aware of the condition before meeting Ian, but it was nothing more than that, a passing recognition of its existence. Getting to know Ian, and watching his deterioration over the years was appalling. How he maintained the strength of character he did was nothing short of incredible. I know I never could have. It gave me an appreciation for how horrifying the disease is. I quite genuinely cannot think of a worse diagnosis to receive.
While I may not possess the expertise of a doctor or scientist, my contribution toward finding a cure is rooted in unwavering support and dedication to realising Ian's vision and legacy.
TONY BRAY
Chief Executive Officer
My involvement with the Ian Pratt MND Foundation began with a personal challenge in 2013 when I embarked on the journey of swimming the Solent for an MND charity.
This endeavour has since transformed into the annual Swim the Solent Ian Pratt MND Challenge, a dedicated initiative aimed at raising funds and awareness for the Foundation. The event's inspiration stems from my initial meeting with Ian and his family during the inaugural swim, igniting for me, a deep commitment to the cause.
Celebrating over 300 successful swims across the Solent, we take pride in the significant awareness raised and the remarkable £300k generated for our cause. Ian, a cherished friend, entrusted me with the role of CEO, and I am enthusiastic about contributing to the Foundation's growth and perpetuating the enduring legacy of Ian Pratt.
