Midlands, June 2025 – Three prominent Midlands firms have joined forces in an extraordinary show of solidarity to support a valued colleague diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), raising vital funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
Accountancy firm Ballards LLP, recruitment specialists Four Squared Recruitment, and creative agency CreativeFolks have collectively raised over £6,000 for the MNDA, following the diagnosis of Bal Siyan, a respected member of Ballards’ Digital Transformation Team.
Bal, who was diagnosed with MND last year, shared his perspective on the journey: “Being diagnosed with motor neurone disease has been life-changing. The process was painfully slow, and by the time I finally received my diagnosis, I had already lost much of my mobility and was practically reliant on a wheelchair. Despite this, I’m focused on moving forward, finding peace, spending quality time with my kids, and making the most of each day. I have an incredibly strong family who support my daily needs, and they are truly wonderful!”
The fundraising efforts have included innovative initiatives such as a charity lucky dip, the auctioning of redundant IT equipment, and an impressive 26-mile charity walk undertaken in June on one of the hottest days of the year so far. Over 30 members of staff across the firms participated in the charity walk, with employees at all levels taking part in the challenge.
James Syree, CEO of Ballards LLP, commented: “Bal is not just a colleague but a valued friend who has shown remarkable courage and positivity throughout his diagnosis. Seeing our business community come together to support both Bal and the incredible work of the MNDA has been truly inspiring. The dedication shown by over 30 staff members who took on the 26-mile walk in sweltering heat demonstrates the extraordinary commitment across all levels of our organisations. The funds raised will help ensure that others facing similar challenges receive the support they desperately need.”
Emma Butler, Relationship Fundraiser for MND Association commented “A huge thank you to Ballards LLP, Four Squared Recruitment and CreativeFolks for choosing to support MND Association with their fundraising. Every day 6 people are diagnosed with MND and many will die within 2 years. We need to ensure people with MND have the support today through our local services, support grants, our connect helpline and hope for the future with our research projects.”
The Motor Neurone Disease Association is a charitable organisation focused on supporting people affected by MND in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The charity provides comprehensive support services including a helpline, online forums, information resources, financial grants, and access to specialist equipment such as communication aids. Additionally, the MNDA funds critical research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of MND whilst campaigning for improved services and better access to care.
Through local support groups, events, and online communities, the MNDA fosters connection among those affected by MND, providing not only practical and emotional support but also hope for a future where the disease is better understood and ultimately curable.
The collaborative fundraising effort demonstrates the power of community support and highlights the vital role that organisations like the MNDA play in supporting individuals and families affected by Motor Neurone Disease.
About the Motor Neurone Disease Association: For more information about the MNDA and their work, visit https://www.mndassociation.org/or call their helpline on 0808 802 6262.