The power of a team

People supporting people, it’s what we’re all about at Monos, and when a teammate is struggling, we rally, and that’s just what the Heavy Lift Mobilisation team have been doing – leading the charge to support their fellow teammate Shawna in her fight against multiple sclerosis (MS), taking on the May 50K challenge, raising funds for life-changing research into MS.

A guiding force behind the charge, Mobilisation Team Lead, Brittany Sanger, personally committed herself to the 150K challenge, which has seen her ‘move’ approximately 5kms every day. For others it will see them complete a total of 50kms, 100kms or 150kms over the month of May either walking or running. 

“It’s an important cause to me, and the least I can do to support my workmate, Shawna who is suffering from MS,” said Brittany.

“The symptoms of MS can fluctuate daily likewise our motivation to exercise, but no matter what, no matter where, I am committed to getting my kilometres in this month.”

Elayna Fenttiman, Ayla Cilento, Lorna Rechichi, Marisa McCourt and Lauren Nettle have committed alongside Brittany, to the May 50K to support teammate and friend Shawna Atkins, and many other Australians suffering with the incurable neurological condition, MS.

“Despite her challenges, Shawna remains incredibly positive and her resilience and determination to continue to be a key contributor to the team is inspirational. The mobilisation team have rallied around since her diagnosis and in undertaking this challenge their team spirit and empathy for a teammate is shining through. I am also very moved by the dollar contributions that people throughout Monadelphous have made showing their care and compassion for the Monadelphous family,” said Lorna.

Monadelphous Heavy Lift has also pledged a $2,000 donation to the fundraising efforts of the team. Taking the team fundraising to over $5,000.

A MESSAGE FROM SHAWNA

“Since being diagnosed with MS in November 2022, the Heavy Lift team have been nothing short of amazing with their support, understanding and general care for me.

When Britt asked me if it would be ok, and how I felt about the team doing the May 50k, I was brought to tears. My team wanted to do something special for me to raise awareness and raise much needed funds to assist with research to find a cure for MS. WOW! How will I ever thank them or show them my appreciation?!

My experience with MS has been completely debilitating at times, and to say it is a rollercoaster would be an understatement. One day I am feeling great and the next day I am in so much pain, depression, and fatigue that I can’t get out of bed. I still remember the day my Neurologist said to me that I will get asked so many questions, but the hardest to answer will be answering:

“How do you feel?”; when you’ve forgotten what “normal” feels like?

MS is so unpredictable and if I was asked this question, I wouldn’t be able to answer it simply. Every day is different and varies so much with pain, vertigo, mobility issues, muscle and nerve spasms, vision problems, brain fog, numbness, pins, and needles plus more. 

But this is how I feel – I smile, I tell jokes, I try to ignore it, but the truth is while I may look ok on the outside on the inside I am hurting.”

Elayna has taken on the May 50K as both a way to support her teammate and a challenge to get into running:

“I had been wanting to try running for a while now and decided the May 50K would be a good way to challenge myself and help make running a habit that would stick. I decided I would try and run 100km over May. This has been a great way for me to keep on track with my running while supporting a great cause and co-worker. The challenge has been great so far and has encouraged our team to get outside to get some steps in and keep each other accountable.

I’m on track to meet my target. Here’s a photo of me from when I completed my first 10km run nonstop!!”

It’s not too late to get behind the fight and help kiss MS goodbye, head over to the team’s fundraising page to contribute – https://www.themay50k.org/fundraisers/heavylift – every little bit counts! #kissgoodbyetoMS