Colleagues from across HSBC UK threw caution to the wind, abseiling down the 50 metre central atrium of the new Head Office in Birmingham raising much needed funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. 99 people traversed the atrium, a million miles from their normal day jobs raising over £20k.
Colleagues from HSBC UK are raising funds for the MND Association on behalf of Mike Lowe, who works in the Financial Crime team, following his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND) in May 2018.
MND is a fatal, rapidly progressing disease which affects the brain and spinal cord. It attacks the nerves that control movement and eventually leaves people unable to move, communicate or breathe. It kills a third of people within a year of diagnosis and half within two years. There is no cure. The MND Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on MND care, research and campaigning.
Mike showed incredible spirit by joining the 50 metre abseil and was joined by his wife Jo and one of his MND Nurses Jackie who’s role is part funded by the MND Association. Mike Lowe, commented: “Thanks to the MND Association I feel better informed about my ailment, I’m able to navigate the minefield of support services and continue to lead a (reasonably) full life. Without the generosity of supporters and their donations little of this would be possible and for that I am truly grateful.”
Linda Allen, Director of Fundraising at the MND Association said: “It has been so amazing to see the colleagues at HSBC UK coming together to help support people affected by MND like Mike. Without support like this from HSBC UK, the MND Association simply would not be able to fund research to find a cure, campaign and raise awareness of MND and provide its vital support services. Together we are making a real difference for people affected by this devastating disease.”
Allan Clare, Head of Financial Crime Compliance, HSBC UK and Mike’s manager said: “I have been truly humbled by the support for the abseil and all the other fundraising activities that have taken place across HSBC UK. Colleagues from across the business have been raising awareness of this awful disease, as well as money for the care and support sufferers like Mike desperately need. The number of colleagues taking part is testament to the friend and colleague that Mike is.”
