Pakenham MP Emma Vulin is suffering from motor neurone disease (MND), revealing the diagnosis this week to the community she will continue to proudly represent.
Vulin made the announcement on Sunday 14 April to an outpouring of support from her electorate and beyond.
She said she is suffering from early stages of MND, a terminal illness which affects the nervous system that is also referred to as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Vulin has faced significant health battles before, having suffered a stroke at the age of 36. Despite the tragic diagnosis, she is defiant in not letting this waver her commitment to the community.
“I will continue to represent my wonderful community,” Vulin said in a statement.
“I have recovered from a significant stroke in the past and have the fight in me to continue being the voice for my community in the Pakenham District.”
Premier Allan took to facebook to praise Vulin in her fight and to give support to her and her family in this tough time.
“When Emma first told me, we spoke about the importance of taking some time to process this with the people she loves. I’m so glad that she is taking that time,” Premier Allan said.
“To know Emma is to be in awe of her fight.
“She fought to become the first Labor member for Pakenham. She fought to recover from a stroke at just 36. And as a CFA volunteer, she literally fights fire to keep her community safe.
“I know she’ll give this fight everything she’s got.”
Everyday in Australia, two people are diagnosed with MND and two people die from the disease.
More than 2,300 Australians are thought to be living with MND at any one time.
The disease and its varying forms is characterised by the damage and death of motor neurons, the links between the brain and muscles.
In this condition, muscles begin to degrade and waste away leading to death. There is no known cure.
If you wish to learn more about MND or support research into combating the disease, go to mndaustralia.org.au or fightmnd.org.au.
Vulin has asked for privacy at this time for her and her family.
