Welcome to the MJD Foundation
Mission Statement
The MJD Foundation seeks to provide a better quality of life for Indigenous Australians and their families living with Machado Joseph Disease in Arnhem Land and beyond.
=> A message from our Director, Research and Community Services
Gayangwa’s Story
Gayangwa is a Warnindilyakwa woman of Groote Eylandt, she is 69 years old, and Machado Joseph Disease has been a part of her life as long as she can remember.
Her father developed the disease when he was an older man, and all 6 of her brothers and sisters were affected by their 40s. She has been a carer for two of her sisters’ children for over 18 years. Now the third generation of her family is sick - her 19 year old niece has been using a wheelchair since she was 14.
Few people have the insight and experiences living with the disease that Gayangwa has. She brings to the MJD Foundation a fierce determination to improve life for her family. Her journey through ‘shame’ and ‘blame’ to proud champion is an encouragement to the many people she meets. Her quiet dignity and perseverance is an inspiration.
=> Gayangwa's speech from the MJD Foundation Launch (30th Aug 08)
Click here for our Documentary "No Shame, No Blame... Just Hope"
Latest News
Apr 13 - "Assistive Technology (Equipment)" medical protocol available =>More
Mar 13 - Physiotherapy on Groote Eylandt =>More
Feb 13 - Download our 2011-2012 Annual Report =>Download
Feb 13 - Welcome to new staff member Ellen Christian =>More
Feb 13 - MJDF to participate in NDIS Practical Design Fund =>More
Jan 13 - Cameras Keep Rolling on Groote =>More
Dec 12 - Santa Goes to Groote =>More
Dec 12 - MJDF receives further Centrecorp funding for Central Australia =>More
Dec 12 - MJDF Finalist in 2012 National Disability Awards =>More
Nov 12 - Newman's Own Foundation provides $50,000 to the MJDF =>More
Oct 12 - First MJDF Women's Camp held on Groote Eylandt =>More
Oct 12 - A Guide to Living with MJD for all Australians =>Download
=>More News
Coming Events
9th Apr 13 - Mt Helena Ultra Marathon - Visit our wonderful fundraisers' Everyday Hero page here 13th Apr 13 - Canberra Running Festival - Visit our wonderful fundraisers' Everyday Hero page here 15th Apr 13 - MJD Genetics Session - Nhulunbuy 4th May 13 - Nike - She Runs the Night - Visit our wonderful fundraisers' Everyday Hero page here
16th Apr 13 - MJD Genetics Session - Darwin
17th Apr 13 - MJD Genetics Session - Darwin
=>Download the flyer here