Fundraising for the Multiple System Atrophy Trust

Brother and sister Eric Armitage and Bev Wrigley when they were children

Brother and Sister Eric Armitage and Bev Wrigley are fundraising for the Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Trust after Eric was only given seven years to live because of the disorder.

Multiple System Atrophy is a progressive neurological disorder which affects adult men and women. MSA is caused by a degeneration of nerve cells in several areas of the brain. This can then result in problems with movement, balance and automatic functions of the body.

Despite his limited mobility, Eric has currently raised over £16,500 for the MSA Trust and Bev wanted to help him reach his new total of £20,000. Together, the two have organised a Mandarin Masquerade Ball to raise money for the charity.

Bev said: “I was reading about pink balls that people do for cancer and thought why don’t we do something like that but use orange because that is the colour of the charity. I think it will be nice to see all of the men in tuxedos and all of the women in ball gowns with a hint of orange.”

The ball will be taking place on Saturday 5 April at The Riverside in Whitworth. Bev attended a family wedding at The Riverside and decided there and then on her venue. “It is an absolutely lovely building and we booked it when we were at the wedding because we liked it so much,” said Bev.

The evening will include a champagne reception, a four course dinner with wine included, a photographer, a close up magician, performances from local band The Potatomen, auctions, a DJ and a compère for the night.

The evening will also have a talk from speakers from the MSA Trust. Bev said: “They are going to give a five minute talk about MSA and explain what it is and what people can do to help.”

Currently there is no cure for MSA and those diagnosed with it are often given between seven and nine years to live. Bev added: “My brother is my hero and is my inspiration for organising this event.”

Details of the event can be found at:

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/events/26364/events-in-rochdale/first-ever-mandarin-masquerade-ball

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