Bracelets for breakthroughs: Hope’s story

Combining her love of football with her determination to create change, 11 year-old Hope Blythe is taking on the fight against motor neurone disease (MND) her way. A passionate Collingwood supporter, Hope has turned her creativity and focus into a mission to raise funds for FightMND. Reminding everyone that every act of kindness can have a huge impact in the fight against MND

The drive behind Hope’s fundraising comes from her family tradition. Every year, Hope, her twin sister Olivia, and her Mum, who are both Melbourne supporters, attend the Melbourne vs. Collingwood game. A match, and a tradition, that holds special significance to Hope and her whole family.

Hope has a special connection with Neale Daniher, someone she refers to as “one of her boys”. Her passion for AFL and its players runs deep. So much so that she often emulates on-field injuries, arriving at school with a moonboot, sling or bandage, depending on what she’s seen during each match. But, when it comes to MND, she sees it differently.

“Neale has done nothing to deserve this,” she explains, “and it could happen to anyone. We need to find a cure”.

Communicating in her own unique way, Hope uses her creativity and actions to make her voice heard. She began making bracelets as a way to combine her love of footy and her drive to raise awareness for MND. Despite facing challenges while tying the knots, Hope insists on doing every step herself. “If I don’t finish it, I haven’t made it,” she shares. A testament to her dedication.

Her bracelet making has captured the support of her school and community. Many parents have donated to get bracelets for their children as keepsakes. Each bracelet becomes a small but meaningful symbol. A way to honour those affected by MND and remind others of the importance of the cause.

For Hope, this journey isn’t just about raising funds. It’s about connection. Crafting bracelets opens conversations about a topic she cares deeply about. Her mum, Kimberley, reveals that while Hope does not talk much, her creativity and efforts speak louder than words. If given the chance to meet Neale Daniher, Hope would stand beside him as a show of strength. Or, she’d break the ice with a playful request to have a go on the Big Freeze slide!

Hope’s efforts are a shining example of how even the smallest actions can create ripples of change. With 87 bracelets and counting, she’s proving that passion, creativity, and determination have the power to make a difference. Through her work, she’s helping drive awareness, spark conversations, and bring us closer to a cure. 

Grab your Beanie and live it forward during Big Freeze 11

This Big Freeze we’re calling on all Australians to live it forward and stand together in the fight against MND. Every Beanie sold helps fund critical research and care initiatives, supporting those living with MND and the families who stand by them.

What are you waiting for? Be part of Big Freeze 11 and show your support by getting your Beanie today from Coles, Bunnings, select Shell Reddy Express stores or via the FightMND website.

Looking for other ways to support? Join the FightMND Army! Whether you wear your beanie with pride, host a fundraising event, or find your own way to freeze MND, every action counts. Don’t forget to share your support tagging @fightmnd and using #BigFreeze11, #LiveItForward, #TeamUpForBigFreeze11, and #FightMND across social media.

Together, we can change the future of MND. Let’s live it forward and make an impact this Big Freeze 11!