Media Centre

Debilitating disease can’t stop mad St Kilda supporter

Publish Date: 12/01/2010
Author: Marketing & Communications Dept.

Vernon Grigg, a recipient of an Individualised Support Package (ISP), is like any ordinary person; he adores his family and friends, enjoys socialising and is optimistic about the future.

Ask Vernon which football team he barracks for and he is quick to respond – “St Kilda of course”!

But three and a half years ago, the 57 year old was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a disease which takes over the cells that control voluntary muscle activity including speaking, walking, swallowing and general movement of the body.

The disease has severely limited the movement in Vernon’s arms and legs, leaving him wheelchair-bound and eventually, it is expected that it will seriously impact his ability to breathe.

But Vernon does not let his condition interfere with his passions, including his 50 year commitment to the St Kilda Football Club.

Although St Kilda’s 2009 Grand Final defeat would have been heartbreaking for any supporter, Vernon’s personal battle has put life’s more difficult experiences into perspective.

After the match, Vernon went home. Unlike most football fans who make the Grand Final a full day of celebration, Vernon’s condition limits his energy.

But Vernon isn’t fazed.

“If I stopped being optimistic, I might as well crawl up into a ball and let the disease take complete control over my life.

“Even though the past three years have been the worst time of my life, they have also been the best because I’ve had so much love and support from my family, friends, Baptcare and my carers.

“Thanks to Baptcare, I have my marriage. My wife is no longer my carer, she is my wife,” Vernon said.

The support from Baptcare has improved Vernon and his family’s lives by enabling Vernon to regain his independence. Through the package, Baptcare provides a regular carer, pastoral care and case management.