#NekNominated Joost helps makes dream come true

Nathania de Kock of the J9 Foundation, founded by Van der Westhuizen, ‘neknominated’ the former Springbok rugby player, as well as her colleagues, to give a motor neuron disease sufferer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

De Kock began what she called “the #J9MomentsofMagic initiative” to assist people with the disease.

The viral #NekNomination Twitter trend, an extreme social media drinking game, originated in Australia.

The trend involves challengers downing alcohol, posting videos online, and nominating others to outdo them. South Africa’s Brent Lindeque turned the game on its head by challenging people to make a positive difference in people’s lives, rather than drinking alcohol.

This #NekNomination will see Stuart MacFarlane, his wife Leonie and their three children take an all-expenses paid family holiday to Victoria Falls.

The trip had been a dream of MacFarlane’s, but it quickly evaporated when he was diagnosed with motor neuron disease in 2011 and the family finances were absorbed by medical bills. After Van der Westhuizen’s nomination, the Bead Coalition – creators of the MND (motor neuron disease) beaded fundraising bracelet – stepped in to help.

Coalition CEO Joanne Lapin Thorpe said, “Our bracelet is a beautiful symbol of support, inspired by my sister Taryn, who also fights this disease.

“We were thrilled to sponsor the first #J9MomentsOfMagic campaign, and I know that MacFarlane will treasure the memories of Victoria Falls.” Van der Westhuizen, who has lived with the disease for 41 months, said he had first-hand experience of how the disease can change the way people think and their priorities in life.

“Family is important, the love of life is invaluable, and the gift is truly in the giving,” he said. “In the end, memories are all we have. We are so grateful to the Bead Coalition for their generous sponsorship.”

Van der Westhuizen and the J9 Foundation went on to #NekNominate Blue Bulls CEO Barend van Graan, Richmark Holdings CEO and J9 director Gavin Varejes, and Blink Pictures director and J9 Foundation trustee Odette Schwegler to participate in the #J9MomentsOfMagic campaign.

MND bracelets can be purchased at CNA, Foto First, Sneakers, Pick ‘n Pay Douglasdale, or online.

Details: www.thebeadco.co.za; www.joost.co.za