Strength, determination and a drive to fight MND: Kim’s story 

When Kim Jansen was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) at 46 years of age, her world shifted. But rather than let the diagnosis define her, Kim found strength in her community, her family and her determination to make a difference. 

Kim lives in a close-knit town an hour south of Adelaide with her husband Dave and their two teenagers, Eve and Leroy. A former midwife, Kim has always been dedicated to helping others. Even now, she remains a vital part of her community through volunteer work at the local surf club, Parkrun and netball club. 

Kim’s journey with MND began following a slight moment in her regular yoga class. Noticing something wasn’t quite right when she couldn’t balance on one leg. Something she had always done with ease. That moment set her on an emotional journey that led to her MND diagnosis in August 2024. Rather than taking it easy Kim, and her wonderfully supportive family, turned her diagnosis into a motivator. Embracing family road trips, overseas adventures and treasuring every moment they had together. 

One of these moments was the family’s involvement in Daniher’s Drive in 2024. Through the Drive, Kim saw first-hand the power of the community coming together in the fight against MND. The energy, generosity and shared purposed of everyone involved left a mark on her and her family.  

“Daniher’s Drive isn’t just about raising funds,” Kim explains. “It was about hope, connection, and feeling part of a movement bigger than myself. It reminded me that even in the face of MND, there’s so much we can do together.” 

Kim holds onto the hope that research will one day find a cure for MND. “I ultimately hope for research to find a cure to MND. Until that happens, I hope research can help people living with MND to live comfortably and with the care they need,” she shares. 

That spirit fuels her ongoing efforts. This year, Kim is planning a Big Freeze fundraiser at her local footy and netball club on 31 May 2025. Her family will also be joining Daniher’s Drive in 2025. She’s continually inspired by the kindness and willingness of those around her to rally together for MND, proving that community spirit knows no bounds. 

Kim’s story is one of resilience, hope and the drive to create a brighter future for those living with MND. Through events like Daniher’s Drive and her own fundraising initiatives, she’s showing that every effort and every story brings us one step closer to a cure. 

Registrations are now open for Daniher’s Drive 2025