Working towards a cure for MND one teddy at a time

Published: February 2020

At MND Research Australia we have many wonderful people raise funds or donate to MND research, but one of our most committed and creative fundraisers is a lovely lady called Heather Harris from Googong, NSW.

For the last three years, Heather has been knitting gorgeous teddies that she sells through her Facebook page Teddies for Motor Neurone Disease Research. These hand knitted teddies make a fabulous high-quality gift for children (and the young at heart!).

Heather also crochets beautiful, warm blankets and pin cushions, which make ideal gifts for adults as well.

Every dollar raised from selling her creations goes directly to MND Research Australia. Not only does Heather donate her time, but she also buys all the materials at her own cost.

Heather originally started knitting teddies when her mum came to live with her after she was diagnosed with MND. Although her mum had lost her voice due to MND, she was still able to use her hands, so knitting became an activity they could do together, instead of sitting down for a chat.

Sadly, Heather’s mum died from MND two years ago, but Heather wanted to continue creating teddies, both as a way to stay connected to her mum, but also as an avenue to raise funds for MND research. Many people who buy Heather’s teddies have been affected by MND in some way and may have also lost a loved one to the disease.

Every teddy or blanket that Heather creates is a labour of love and takes around one week to create. If you’re interested in purchasing a teddy, please contact her through her Facebook page: Teddies for Motor Neurone Disease Research.

Thank you Heather for all your fabulous work, it’s through people like you that we will one day find a cure for MND!