Leighton Evered with Wellard resident Joel Slinger. Leighton is taking part in the Dwellingup 100 Mountain Bike Classic to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy WA next Saturday.
Camera IconLeighton Evered with Wellard resident Joel Slinger. Leighton is taking part in the Dwellingup 100 Mountain Bike Classic to raise funds for Muscular Dystrophy WA next Saturday. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Wellard resident will cheer friend across finish line in Dwellingup 100 Mountain Bike Classic

Tim SlaterWeekend Kwinana Courier

WELLARD resident Joel Slinger will travel to Dwellingup to see his support worker and friend of 20 years, Leighton Evered, cross the finish line after riding 40 kilometres next Saturday.

Mr Evered is joining a group of 45 motivated mountain bikers participating in the Dwellingup 100 Mountain Bike Classic – raising vital funds to enrich the lives of West Australians living with muscular dystrophy through the Trail Day for Muscular Dystrophy WA initiative.

He will be participating in the ride for the third time after he was inspired by Mr Slinger in 2015.

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“I have worked as a support worker at Rocky Bay for quite some years now and have been lucky enough to meet some amazing people on the way,” Mr Evered said.

“Not only do I get inspired by how strong, determined and loving people can be but I get to become a member of a larger family.

“Riding for Joel for the third year will be an honour, he’s a good friend with a truly amazing family”.

Muscular Dystrophy WA chief executive Hayley Lethlean is also taking part in the ride and said it was a critical event in the association’s fundraising and awareness calendar.

“We firmly believe that no one should be defined by their condition and that the medical needs of an individual with muscular dystrophy are only half the story,” Ms Lethlean said.

“Thanks to the support of our many sponsors, donors and volunteers throughout our 50 year history, we continue to serve the Muscular Dystrophy community, enabling individuals to do the things they strive to achieve.

“Together, we approach challenges to create solutions that empower full lives.”

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic neuromuscular condition where muscles slowly degenerate and weaken.

Around 700 to 800 people in WA are affected by the condition, and an estimated 20,000 affected in Australia.

Muscular Dystrophy WA is celebrating 50 years of service to the Western Australian Muscular Dystrophy Community.

Ms Lethlean said the association was commemorating five decades of funding research and providing social support to those affected by the condition as well as their families.

“We require the support of the public more than ever to continue this service,” she said.

“Every dollar, every ‘like’ and every positive comment helps the cause.”

She said Muscular Dystrophy WA strived to help everyone in their community fulfil their goals and dreams through a shared ambition for their life and the practical help that will get them there.

“No matter a person’s abilities, their right to live a full, rich life they love should always be championed,” Ms Lethlean said.

To make a donation to Muscular Dystrophy Western Australia visit: https://traildayformdwa.everydayhero.com/au/leighton

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