Neale Daniher Wife: Explore All About Jan Daniher

Jan Daniher, wife of former Essendon star and Melbourne coach Neil Daniher, recently spoke about her life with her husband as they approach the 10th Big Freeze at the ‘G fundraiser. The event supports Daniher’s FightMND charity and will take place ahead of Monday’s King’s Birthday clash between Collingwood and Melbourne.

Who is Neil Daniher?

Neil Daniher is a former Australian Rules footballer and coach. He played for the Essendon Football Club in the AFL and later became the coach of the Melbourne Football Club. Neil is widely respected in the football community for his contributions on and off the field. In 2013, Neil was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a fatal disease with no known cure. Since his diagnosis, he has become a prominent advocate for MND research and awareness, founding the FightMND charity.

How did Jaina react to Neil’s diagnosis?

Jane Daniher remembers the moment she learned of Neil’s diagnosis of motor neurone disease (MND). She was with the West Coast Fever netball team in New Zealand when Neil broke the news to her. After four months of medical tests, doctors concluded Neil had the fatal disease. Jane remembers the shock and confusion of that moment in 2013.

She immediately tried to understand what MND meant. “I went back to the hotel and did a Google search, just to get some understanding,” Jaina shared on the latest episode of the Mums With Mix podcast. The prognosis was grim, with doctors estimating that Neil had around 27 months to live. The news was devastating, and Jaina struggled to comprehend the reality of the situation.

What were the early influences on his family?

The diagnosis had a profound impact on the Danier family. Jane described the difficulty of telling the news to her children and extended family. “Trying to tell people, trying to tell the kids. It was very difficult,” she said. The family faced an unimaginable challenge as they grappled with Neil’s condition and the future ahead.

Despite the initial shock, the family found strength and purpose through their charity work. The FightMND charity has provided them with a positive outlet amid Neil’s ongoing struggle with the disease. Jain emphasises the importance of this work, saying, “It has been amazing for our family because if we had lived with this disease and seen what is happening to Neil now, it would have been like watching someone being slowly tortured.”

How has the massive snowfall on the ‘G’ helped?

‘The Big Freeze in the G fundraiser has become a symbol of hope and resilience for the Daniher family and the wider community. Neil Daniher, who is now the face of the event, has inspired many people through his courageous battle against MND. The charity aims to raise money for research and treatment to give hope to those suffering from the disease.

Jane highlighted the importance of fundraising, and how it has given her family a sense of purpose. “To be able to do something that is positive, and that can give people hope in the future that ‘okay, you have MND, but there is a cure’ is important,” she said. The event not only raises awareness but also funds vital research efforts.

What are Jain’s thoughts on this trip?

Reflecting on her journey, Jan Daniher shares the emotional ups and downs she has experienced. From the initial diagnosis to her ongoing battle, the journey has been filled with challenges. However, her work with FightMND has provided a ray of hope and a way to positively direct her energy.

Jan also features in the Mums with Mike podcast episodes, which shed light on the wider experiences of families in the AFL community. Hosts Tracey Mackay and Jackie de Koning explore the lives of mothers who support their footballer sons through the ups and downs of the game. The podcast offers a unique glimpse into the family aspect of football, from glamorous events such as the Brownlow Medal to the everyday challenges and triumphs.

What’s next for Deniers and FightMND?

As the Daniher family prepare for the 10th Big Freeze at the ‘G’, their focus is on raising awareness and funds for MND research. The event has grown significantly over the past few years, becoming a major highlight on the AFL calendar. Neil’s determination and the support of the community keep the FightMND mission moving forward.

Jane’s candid thoughts are a reminder of the human side of this battle. Her strength and resilience, as well as Neil’s unwavering spirit, inspire many. The upcoming fundraising campaign is not only a testament to their fight, but also a call to action for continued support and research in the search for a cure for MND.

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