Letter to a bowler

by Team BV

Playing bowls allows you to have fun with friends while exercising to improve your wellbeing.
 
Imagine being told that due to chronic pain and immobility you could no longer bowl. How would you feel?
 
Chances are you, or someone you know, experiences this level of disability from conditions such as arthritis. In fact, statistics tell us that 1 in 3 Australians are experiencing some kind of muscle, bone or joint injury that limit their daily activities.
 
These conditions take no prisoners. We need your help!
 
MOVE muscle, bone & joint health represents all people who live with arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain and the more than 150 conditions affecting muscles, bones and joints. We provide vital support services including our free Help Line, expert knowledge, education and research.
 
We know there are many worthwhile causes in Australia and the charity sector is crowded. However, we believe our cause has been over looked for too long and there is an urgency to communicate the importance of increased investment to support the 6 million people affected by these crippling conditions.
 
We need to change the perception of arthritis in this country. We need the public to know that arthritis and chronic pain does not just affect older people. You may be surprised to know that it affects babies, children and young people too. There is no cure.
 
As the official Bowls Victoria partner, MOVE is asking for your support to help us fundraise during your club’s Play Bowls day during Play Bowls Month. We appreciate that all clubs have their own charity causes but we are hopeful that you will at least support us during this period of time.
 
It can be as simple as a gold coin donation! If clubs were to promote this initiative, collectively we believe bowling clubs in Victoria would make a significant impact on improving the quality of life for people who have, or are at risk of developing, muscle, bone and joint conditions.
 
We’d love to hear from you and look forward to your support. Please give Gabi a call on 03 8531 8011 or email gabi.massey@move.org.au
 
As the new voice of Arthritis and Osteoporosis Victoria, MOVE muscle, bone & joint health is one voice for all conditions in Australia.