Our History, Mission, Vision and Values - Muscular Dystrophy Queensland
Our History, Mission, Vision and Values

Our History

In 1978 a group of families, concerned about the lack of assistance for their children, formed the Muscular Dystrophy Support Group. Without clinical or public recognition of the disorders the group began the challenging process of raising awareness, fundraising for equipment and services and supporting research that might one day find a cure.

Today we build on the dedicated efforts of these early volunteers, working in line with our mission, towards a future where neuromuscular conditions no longer limit choice and control and people with muscular dystrophy and similar neuromuscular conditions can make the most of opportunities and fulfil their potential to live the lives they choose.

 

 1978

A group of families whose children had muscular dystrophy joined forces to raise awareness and funds. The first executive board members of “The Muscular Dystrophy Family Support Association of Queensland” were appointed on 25 June 1978.

 1991

MDQ’s first Executive Director, Mr Peter Denham is appointed. Mr Denham lead the organisation until 2007.

 1992

The organisation became incorporated and known as ‘South East Queensland Muscular Dystrophy Assoc. Inc.’ The newly incorporated organisation also achieved charitable status as per the Collections Act. Equipment loans including electric beds, ventilators and wheelchairs are provided to families with muscular dystrophy in addition to counselling and support services.

1994

All Hallows’ School Year 11 students collect donations for Muscular Dystrophy Queensland on the streets of Brisbane for Red Bow Day. This annual tradition still continues more than 25 years on.

All Hallows

Andrew, Greg and James Bell from Ray White Surfers Paradise host an inaugural Ball raising funds for muscular dystrophy. The annual Ball has now raised millions of dollars over the past 25+ years.

 1995

The Brisbane Harley Owners Group host their first charity ride, raising funds for people with muscular dystrophy. More than 20 years later, this annual ride is a highlight on the MDQ calendar.

HOG Riders

 1999

The organisation moves from premises at Rocklea Markets to inner city Wharf Street.

 2017

MDQ becomes an Australian Public Company limited by guarantee in preparation for the introduction of the NDIS which will allow the organisation to provide chargeable services to clients who’s supports will be funded through the new scheme. Charitable services continue for those not eligible for NDIS funding.

 2018

MDQ celebrates its 40th birthday.

 2019

NDIS rolls out across Queensland and MDQ employ specialised Allied Health therapists to provide services to clients.

We Heart NDIS logo


Emeritus Professor John Pearn AO, RFD, MD, PhD, D Sc, M Phil, FRHSQ, FFAHS

 

Emeritus Professor John Pearn is a senior paediatrician at Queensland Children’s Hospital. For many years he served as Professor of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Queensland and the Royal Brisbane Women and Children’s Hospital. His research publications in international literature have contributed to child safety and welfare, clinical genetics, neuromuscular disease and medical ethics. During his career John Pearn also served as a doctor-soldier in the Royal Australian Army Medical Corps where he was promoted to Major General and became Surgeon General of the Australian Defence Force.

Professor Pearn has received numerous awards including the Order of Australia for service to medicine, particularly in the areas of paediatrics and medical ethics, to medical history, and to the community through injury prevention and first aid programs.  Muscular Dystrophy Queensland is honoured to have Professor Pearn as our patron.

Our Patron with our Chairman and board member

Life without limits for people with neuromuscular conditions.

OUR VISION

Life without limits for people with neuromuscular conditions.

OUR MISSION

Muscular Dystrophy Queensland empowers people living with muscular dystrophy and similar neuromuscular conditions to make the most of opportunities and live the lives they choose.

Our Values

KNOWLEDGE: We grow our knowledge: listening and adapting to meet the changing needs of our neuromuscular community. We amplify the voice of the neuromuscular community for their benefit and wellbeing.
SERVICE: We work with care, dedication and excellence to serve our neuromuscular community.
COMMUNITY: We are a diverse group: people living with neuromuscular conditions and those who support them. We value inclusion, connection, respect and shared experience. 
WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER.