You all know about driver fatigue and the physical manifestations connected to it.

All the warning signs are there with driver fatigue… the heavy eyes, your wits are sluggish and that overwhelming sensation of tiredness engulfs you.
Donor fatigue is not much different to this.

For us humble charities, we are experiencing the worst donor fatigue I have seen, in more than 25 years of my involvement with MDA.

Australian charities fear donor fatigue amid mounting natural disasters around the world this year.

There is no doubt about it that the growing number of global and local natural catastrophes has taken a toll on traditional charities, who are struggling as it is.

Every donation dollar is hard to come by. Charities around Australia are all very savvy when it comes to donations. Shaking tins seems so archaic compared to the creative donation strategies out there.

In 2011, Australia has been plagued with natural disasters so it is an automatic response to dig deep to help the frail and the desperate. The extreme nature of these catastrophes obviously justifies the donations needed.

However, our daily challenges at MDA still exist, with the continued growth of MD affected needing assistance.

As for MDA, our demands continue to be abundant, with the need for altruism, just as great, if not greater.

So it is wonderful to report, that after our recent Challenge MD! to Mt Blanc, France, the 16 trekkers and myself were able to raise $200,000.

With every step we took, we knew it was a dollar more for the MD cause. For all of us participating, knowing the possible outcome inspired us to continue to dig deep through mental and physical exhaustion.

As you know, Muscular Dystrophy Association has evolved into a vibrant, passionate and service-driven organisation. Our main priority at MDA is, and will always be, to provide the MD community with the best service and support possible.

The amount we raised from Challenge MD! will certainly help nurture and feed Research, programs and services.

MDA’s focus is relentless but our drive to improve the lives affected with MD does not falter.

From the establishment of the National Muscular Dystrophy Centre, CampMDA, Wheelie’s Rest, the Future’s Program, and many more, we at MDA, are so proud of what we have achieved over the last couple of decades.