Footy legend's voice returns after years, inspiring fight against deadly disease
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In a significant moment, a well-known figure has spoken in their own voice after a long time, despite ongoing health challenges.
Innovative technology made this milestone possible, bringing hope and inspiration to many.
Their resilience continues to inspire those facing similar struggles.
Neale Daniher, the esteemed former Melbourne coach, was diagnosed with MND in 2013, a condition that progressively damages the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and eventually loss of speech.
Over the years, Daniher has become a symbol of resilience and determination, not only for his fight against MND but also for his tireless efforts to raise awareness and funds for research through his charity, FightMND.
The technology that has given Daniher his voice back utilises eye-gaze systems, which allow users to control computers and communication devices simply by moving their eyes.
Previously, Daniher communicated through a synthesised robotic voice, but now, the system can replicate his voice thanks to artificial intelligence and recordings from his past media press conferences.
'It’s much better than the robot voice I had, but I don’t sit around listening to myself all day,' Daniher humorously remarked.
His wife, Jan, shared her astonishment and joy upon hearing her husband's voice emanating from the communication system for the first time, leaving her 'gobsmacked.'
The impact of this technological advancement extends beyond Daniher and his family's personal triumph.
It serves as a beacon of progress in assistive technology, offering a more natural and personalised form of communication for those who have lost their ability to speak due to various conditions.
Daniher was honored as the 2025 Australian of the Year in recognition of his incredible charity work.
His commitment to the cause is unwavering, as he continues engaging in activities that raise funds and awareness.
One such event is the Hand-in-Hand Crossing for Inclusion. Daniher, alongside his wife Jan and son Luke, will lead over Matagarup Bridge before Fremantle's Round 4 clash against the Western Bulldogs.
Jan Daniher emphasised the importance of the event, stating, 'It raises awareness for people with disability and the issues that they have just in their normal life. Hopefully, there's a really big crowd that will support it on Sunday.'
Neale Daniher's public battle with MND and his work through fundraising events like the Big Freeze have endeared him to the nation.
The Big Freeze, in particular, has been a phenomenal success, with the 2024 edition raising a record-breaking $20.1 million for FightMND.
The charity has invested over $115.78 million in care and research initiatives since 2014, all in pursuit of a world free from MND.
Daniher's journey is a testament to the power of community, determination, and the human spirit.
His voice, once silenced by disease, now resonates louder than ever, not just in sound but in the impact he continues to make.
As he prepares for his longest plane flight in a while to attend the event in Western Australia, his message is clear:
Credit: X
Credit: Facebook
'The Big Freeze is a perfect example of what people power, combined with football, can do to improve the lives of others.'
Have you or someone you know been touched by MND, and how do you find strength in the face of adversity? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
Innovative technology made this milestone possible, bringing hope and inspiration to many.
Their resilience continues to inspire those facing similar struggles.
Neale Daniher, the esteemed former Melbourne coach, was diagnosed with MND in 2013, a condition that progressively damages the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and eventually loss of speech.
Over the years, Daniher has become a symbol of resilience and determination, not only for his fight against MND but also for his tireless efforts to raise awareness and funds for research through his charity, FightMND.
Neale Daniher's voice has been used for the first time in years, thanks to new technology. Credit: Facebook
The technology that has given Daniher his voice back utilises eye-gaze systems, which allow users to control computers and communication devices simply by moving their eyes.
Previously, Daniher communicated through a synthesised robotic voice, but now, the system can replicate his voice thanks to artificial intelligence and recordings from his past media press conferences.
'It’s much better than the robot voice I had, but I don’t sit around listening to myself all day,' Daniher humorously remarked.
His wife, Jan, shared her astonishment and joy upon hearing her husband's voice emanating from the communication system for the first time, leaving her 'gobsmacked.'
The impact of this technological advancement extends beyond Daniher and his family's personal triumph.
It serves as a beacon of progress in assistive technology, offering a more natural and personalised form of communication for those who have lost their ability to speak due to various conditions.
Daniher was honored as the 2025 Australian of the Year in recognition of his incredible charity work.
His commitment to the cause is unwavering, as he continues engaging in activities that raise funds and awareness.
One such event is the Hand-in-Hand Crossing for Inclusion. Daniher, alongside his wife Jan and son Luke, will lead over Matagarup Bridge before Fremantle's Round 4 clash against the Western Bulldogs.
Jan Daniher emphasised the importance of the event, stating, 'It raises awareness for people with disability and the issues that they have just in their normal life. Hopefully, there's a really big crowd that will support it on Sunday.'
Neale Daniher's public battle with MND and his work through fundraising events like the Big Freeze have endeared him to the nation.
The Big Freeze, in particular, has been a phenomenal success, with the 2024 edition raising a record-breaking $20.1 million for FightMND.
The charity has invested over $115.78 million in care and research initiatives since 2014, all in pursuit of a world free from MND.
Daniher's journey is a testament to the power of community, determination, and the human spirit.
His voice, once silenced by disease, now resonates louder than ever, not just in sound but in the impact he continues to make.
As he prepares for his longest plane flight in a while to attend the event in Western Australia, his message is clear:
Credit: X
Credit: Facebook
'The Big Freeze is a perfect example of what people power, combined with football, can do to improve the lives of others.'
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