The Whitley Wander, an event dedicated to raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research, will take place on January 24, 2025, in memory of Janine Turnbull. This initiative, inspired by Janine’s battle with MND, aims to continue her legacy of awareness and fundraising after her passing in August 2023.
Janine, a respected figure in North Tyneside and a former police officer, was laid to rest surrounded by friends and family. Mourners gathered at St Alban’s Church in Earsdon to honor her life, reflecting on the significant impact she had on her community. Since her diagnosis, Janine’s loved ones have raised over £45,000 to support research efforts for a cure, alongside an additional £17,000 for necessary modifications to their home.
Her sister, Nicole Brown, is determined to continue these fundraising efforts until a cure is found. “People shouldn’t have to go through the horror that Janine went through,” she stated. Nicole highlighted the emotional toll of MND, noting that families begin grieving even before the person’s passing. “Every day that you have is the best day that you’re going to have with her,” she added.
Nicole believes that events like the Whitley Wander embody what Janine would have wanted. The walk will commence at 11:00 AM outside Spanish City in Whitley Bay, proceeding along the scenic seafront. “I think she’d want us to meet up and laugh and smile and connect,” Nicole expressed, emphasizing the importance of community support.
Dominic McDonough from the MND Association praised the community’s commitment to this cause. “It is fantastic to see the local community coming together once again for the Whitley Wander to raise funds for the MND Association in memory of Janine,” he remarked. The funds raised thus far are allocated to research at the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), where collaborative teams work on developing treatments and enhancing patient care.
The research funded by these efforts is vital for advancing understanding of MND and improving the quality of life for those affected. “The awareness raised at events inspired by Janine is helping countless people with MND,” McDonough stated, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support from Janine’s family and friends.
In addition to the Whitley Wander, several other fundraising activities are planned in Janine’s honor. On February 21, her husband, John Turnbull, will perform with his band, Pirates, at King Street Social Club in Tynemouth. Moreover, a Christmas single released by the Rush family successfully raised over £1,000 during the festive season.
Through these initiatives, Janine’s family continues to inspire hope and mobilize the community in the fight against MND, with the goal of reaching £50,000 in total funds raised. The spirit of connection and determination remains at the heart of their mission, ensuring that Janine’s legacy lives on.
