Local owner of Affordable Flowers By Joy and Ashdon Bed & Breakfast, Joy London, is holding a High Tea next month to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
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The cause is one close to Joy's heart, as she was diagnosed with MND in October of last year.
"It was a shock to be diagnosed with MND at 62, I thought I was just being clumsy when I dropped flower containers but then I couldn't peg clothes up on the clothes line and I knew something wasn't right," Joy said.
"It took six months to diagnose me. MND can be difficult for doctors to catch."
Joy has been diagnosed with upper MND which affects her speech, swallowing and she has also lost the use of her right hand.
"It took some time to adjust and for it to sink in. I have declined a lot in the past 12 months."
Joy has a support worker who helps her around the house, but she still manages to run both of her businesses.
"My husband and I started the B & B around nine years ago and I've always loved flowers and have now had the florist for seven years.
"I've accepted the diagnosis, it took a while. But I'm just staying positive," Joy said.
"I was given two and a half to five years to live and I eventually won't be able to talk and will probably be in a wheelchair.
"There isn't much awareness out there about MND and how it impacts people, that's why I am holding the fundraising event."
The High Tea will be held at Ashdon Bed & Breakfast on September 7, with all of the funds going to Motor Neurone Disease NSW.
"I want all of the funds to go towards research into MND so that one day a cure can be found.
"It's going to be a great event. I've really reached out to the community and a lot of local businesses have donated items for the raffle and auction.
"We're selling raffle tickets at Coles in South West Rocks for one of local artist Robert Bugden's paintings. We're going to have live music, an auction, a fashion show by Raw Spice Boutique, and a raffle.
"A number of businesses have donated food hampers, vouchers and items for the raffle. I really wanted to involve the whole community."
Tickets for the High Tea cost $20 which includes lunch, finger food and a complimentary drink on arrival, they can be purchased online here.
If you are unable to attend the event but still wish to donate, you can donate online to Joy's fundraising page.
The High Tea will be held on September 7 at Ashdon Bed & Breakfast, 26 Smoky Ridge Dr Arakoon, from 12pm to 4pm.
If any local businesses wish to donate items for the raffle or auction, contact Joy at Ashdon Bed & Breakfast on 6566-7271.
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