More than €1.2 million were raised in a telethon on Sunday in aid of Bjorn Formosa’s newest venture: the DAR Bjorn Respite.

This will be an extension to the second DAR Bjorn (located in Żebbuġ) and will serve as a Respite home for people with neurological conditions, a statement by the foundation said. This means that people who care for relatives 24/7 can take them to the Respite for a defined number of days while they get some well-deserved rest.

This home will be adequately equipped for people with neurological conditions much like DAR Bjorn in Qormi and the one in Żebbuġ which is nearing completion.

This year’s fundraising event was a success against all odds. After months of preparation, mere weeks before the big day Bjorn – who was diagnosed with ALS seven years ago - was hospitalised and feared he would not be able to witness what he had worked so hard for in person. Despite his condition and ongoing pain, just on Sunday morning he was discharged and made it to the studio right on time.

The epitome of resilience - Bjorn did not leave the studio. From behind the scenes to in front of the camera he fought through to the end until the €1,200,259 mark. Surrounded by his dedicated carers, his wife Maria and countless workers, volunteers and crew members, the ALS Malta founder could see months of hard work come to fruition.

The atmosphere in the studio was simply beautiful. A sense of togetherness - a group of people who have all come together for one aim; to help. Not just to help Bjorn realise this new project but to help more. There are so many people suffering in their own homes with degenerative diseases and lack of accessibility, not just the ones on our screens but hundreds more behind closed doors. ALS Malta + is helping these people but the need is always growing and that is what the 12 hour telethon communicated to those watching at home.

Everyone gave a helping hand, some donated from their own homes while others joined at the studio to present their donations. Some donated their time during the marathon to go out and collect pledges while others worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everything ran smoothly. Simply put, the sense of fulfilment from both donors and volunteers was palpable throughout.

However this is merely a fraction of what ALS Malta + can do, this work is ongoing and help is always needed!

 

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