Latest news with #MacDougallFoundation
The Advertiser
04-06-2025
- General
- The Advertiser
'She was a normal, healthy kid': Alara's 'heartbreaking' battle with rare disease
Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.'
The Advertiser
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
'Amazing': Former Knights star's huge donation to Ronald McDonald House
The MacDougall Foundation will give $2 million for the expansion of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle. Former Newcastle Knights star Adam MacDougall and his wife Belinda, known for creating the Man Shake and Lady Shake, own the foundation. The money will go towards stage one of the "Building a Bigger Heart" project. The first stage includes three self-contained family units, with a second stage to add eight more. Ronald McDonald House, which is on the grounds of John Hunter Children's Hospital, currently has 12 rooms and six self-contained units. Donna Horsey, head fundraiser at Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, said "we're currently turning families away". "We want to make sure we don't have to say no to any family." Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW CEO Ross Bingham said "we are incredibly grateful" to the MacDougalls. "This extremely generous gift will make a world of difference for hundreds of families, giving them a home away from home so they can be near their sick child in hospital," Mr Bingham said. Ms Horsey added that the donation was "absolutely amazing". "It means the world." The MacDougalls co-founded Cranky Health in their garage in 2013, which led to their successful meal replacement shakes. They sold 70 per cent of the business in 2022. Mr MacDougall is listed among Australia's wealthiest 250 people with a $650 million fortune. "We had the Man Shake for 10 years. We had always donated a certain amount of our revenue to charities," he said. The foundation enabled them to "have an ongoing ability to help people in need". "I think good businesses set out to make a difference and be good corporate citizens and good people," he said. "If you can help, you should help." He had heard stories of people with sick children having to sleep in their cars at John Hunter. "It's heartbreaking," he said. The couple have two daughters Harlow, 10, and Mili, 8. "We're trying to teach our kids at a young age about giving back. One day they'll take over the foundation," Mrs MacDougall said. She said the foundation's goal was to "help anybody or charity that is struggling in all sorts of areas". "Being local, we look at Newcastle-based projects first. We do have a passion for mental health, kids and the Salvation Army." Mr MacDougall said the $2 million donation to Ronald McDonald House would enable "others to come on board for the second stage, which is pretty cool." The couple started their nutrition business after Adam's best mate Dennis died of a heart attack in his 40s. "We thought if we could change one person's life, maybe they could change somebody else's," he said. While the success of their business was a team effort, Adam said "I was lucky I had Belinda". "She had been very successful in business previously. She's really smart. I was lucky to stand on her shoulders. "Any great business has co-founders. I found a good one who was also my wife. She instilled a lot of belief in me." Belinda came up with the famous Man Shake name. "Adam said it was the worst name I've ever heard. I still remind him to this day." The MacDougall Foundation will give $2 million for the expansion of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle. Former Newcastle Knights star Adam MacDougall and his wife Belinda, known for creating the Man Shake and Lady Shake, own the foundation. The money will go towards stage one of the "Building a Bigger Heart" project. The first stage includes three self-contained family units, with a second stage to add eight more. Ronald McDonald House, which is on the grounds of John Hunter Children's Hospital, currently has 12 rooms and six self-contained units. Donna Horsey, head fundraiser at Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, said "we're currently turning families away". "We want to make sure we don't have to say no to any family." Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW CEO Ross Bingham said "we are incredibly grateful" to the MacDougalls. "This extremely generous gift will make a world of difference for hundreds of families, giving them a home away from home so they can be near their sick child in hospital," Mr Bingham said. Ms Horsey added that the donation was "absolutely amazing". "It means the world." The MacDougalls co-founded Cranky Health in their garage in 2013, which led to their successful meal replacement shakes. They sold 70 per cent of the business in 2022. Mr MacDougall is listed among Australia's wealthiest 250 people with a $650 million fortune. "We had the Man Shake for 10 years. We had always donated a certain amount of our revenue to charities," he said. The foundation enabled them to "have an ongoing ability to help people in need". "I think good businesses set out to make a difference and be good corporate citizens and good people," he said. "If you can help, you should help." He had heard stories of people with sick children having to sleep in their cars at John Hunter. "It's heartbreaking," he said. The couple have two daughters Harlow, 10, and Mili, 8. "We're trying to teach our kids at a young age about giving back. One day they'll take over the foundation," Mrs MacDougall said. She said the foundation's goal was to "help anybody or charity that is struggling in all sorts of areas". "Being local, we look at Newcastle-based projects first. We do have a passion for mental health, kids and the Salvation Army." Mr MacDougall said the $2 million donation to Ronald McDonald House would enable "others to come on board for the second stage, which is pretty cool." The couple started their nutrition business after Adam's best mate Dennis died of a heart attack in his 40s. "We thought if we could change one person's life, maybe they could change somebody else's," he said. While the success of their business was a team effort, Adam said "I was lucky I had Belinda". "She had been very successful in business previously. She's really smart. I was lucky to stand on her shoulders. "Any great business has co-founders. I found a good one who was also my wife. She instilled a lot of belief in me." Belinda came up with the famous Man Shake name. "Adam said it was the worst name I've ever heard. I still remind him to this day." The MacDougall Foundation will give $2 million for the expansion of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle. Former Newcastle Knights star Adam MacDougall and his wife Belinda, known for creating the Man Shake and Lady Shake, own the foundation. The money will go towards stage one of the "Building a Bigger Heart" project. The first stage includes three self-contained family units, with a second stage to add eight more. Ronald McDonald House, which is on the grounds of John Hunter Children's Hospital, currently has 12 rooms and six self-contained units. Donna Horsey, head fundraiser at Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, said "we're currently turning families away". "We want to make sure we don't have to say no to any family." Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW CEO Ross Bingham said "we are incredibly grateful" to the MacDougalls. "This extremely generous gift will make a world of difference for hundreds of families, giving them a home away from home so they can be near their sick child in hospital," Mr Bingham said. Ms Horsey added that the donation was "absolutely amazing". "It means the world." The MacDougalls co-founded Cranky Health in their garage in 2013, which led to their successful meal replacement shakes. They sold 70 per cent of the business in 2022. Mr MacDougall is listed among Australia's wealthiest 250 people with a $650 million fortune. "We had the Man Shake for 10 years. We had always donated a certain amount of our revenue to charities," he said. The foundation enabled them to "have an ongoing ability to help people in need". "I think good businesses set out to make a difference and be good corporate citizens and good people," he said. "If you can help, you should help." He had heard stories of people with sick children having to sleep in their cars at John Hunter. "It's heartbreaking," he said. The couple have two daughters Harlow, 10, and Mili, 8. "We're trying to teach our kids at a young age about giving back. One day they'll take over the foundation," Mrs MacDougall said. She said the foundation's goal was to "help anybody or charity that is struggling in all sorts of areas". "Being local, we look at Newcastle-based projects first. We do have a passion for mental health, kids and the Salvation Army." Mr MacDougall said the $2 million donation to Ronald McDonald House would enable "others to come on board for the second stage, which is pretty cool." The couple started their nutrition business after Adam's best mate Dennis died of a heart attack in his 40s. "We thought if we could change one person's life, maybe they could change somebody else's," he said. While the success of their business was a team effort, Adam said "I was lucky I had Belinda". "She had been very successful in business previously. She's really smart. I was lucky to stand on her shoulders. "Any great business has co-founders. I found a good one who was also my wife. She instilled a lot of belief in me." Belinda came up with the famous Man Shake name. "Adam said it was the worst name I've ever heard. I still remind him to this day." The MacDougall Foundation will give $2 million for the expansion of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle. Former Newcastle Knights star Adam MacDougall and his wife Belinda, known for creating the Man Shake and Lady Shake, own the foundation. The money will go towards stage one of the "Building a Bigger Heart" project. The first stage includes three self-contained family units, with a second stage to add eight more. Ronald McDonald House, which is on the grounds of John Hunter Children's Hospital, currently has 12 rooms and six self-contained units. Donna Horsey, head fundraiser at Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, said "we're currently turning families away". "We want to make sure we don't have to say no to any family." Ronald McDonald House Northern NSW CEO Ross Bingham said "we are incredibly grateful" to the MacDougalls. "This extremely generous gift will make a world of difference for hundreds of families, giving them a home away from home so they can be near their sick child in hospital," Mr Bingham said. Ms Horsey added that the donation was "absolutely amazing". "It means the world." The MacDougalls co-founded Cranky Health in their garage in 2013, which led to their successful meal replacement shakes. They sold 70 per cent of the business in 2022. Mr MacDougall is listed among Australia's wealthiest 250 people with a $650 million fortune. "We had the Man Shake for 10 years. We had always donated a certain amount of our revenue to charities," he said. The foundation enabled them to "have an ongoing ability to help people in need". "I think good businesses set out to make a difference and be good corporate citizens and good people," he said. "If you can help, you should help." He had heard stories of people with sick children having to sleep in their cars at John Hunter. "It's heartbreaking," he said. The couple have two daughters Harlow, 10, and Mili, 8. "We're trying to teach our kids at a young age about giving back. One day they'll take over the foundation," Mrs MacDougall said. She said the foundation's goal was to "help anybody or charity that is struggling in all sorts of areas". "Being local, we look at Newcastle-based projects first. We do have a passion for mental health, kids and the Salvation Army." Mr MacDougall said the $2 million donation to Ronald McDonald House would enable "others to come on board for the second stage, which is pretty cool." The couple started their nutrition business after Adam's best mate Dennis died of a heart attack in his 40s. "We thought if we could change one person's life, maybe they could change somebody else's," he said. While the success of their business was a team effort, Adam said "I was lucky I had Belinda". "She had been very successful in business previously. She's really smart. I was lucky to stand on her shoulders. "Any great business has co-founders. I found a good one who was also my wife. She instilled a lot of belief in me." Belinda came up with the famous Man Shake name. "Adam said it was the worst name I've ever heard. I still remind him to this day."
