A Cause Close to His Heart

Based on a story by Sue Bailey in the Hobart Mercury – Monday 2 December 2024

Paul Lucas (SVC 1961-64) was still working in his wholesale business when he first had symptoms of motor neurone disease (MND). He passed away in 2019, aged 71 – he lived for 12 months after the initial diagnosis.

The loss of his father to MND has inspired his son, Warren (svc 1995-98), to assist with the search for a cure for this insidious disease.

About 45 Tasmanians are living with MND and at least two people are diagnosed with the disease in Australia every day.

Warren studied Pharmacy at UTas and is now the state manager at Chemist Warehouse. In just five years, more than $700,000 has been raised through the pharmacies, of which $200,000 was raised this year. Warren paid tribute to his more than 400 staff members who have supported him in this quest.