Welcome
The J9 Foundation was formed by the rugby legend, Joost van der Westhuizen in aid of those suffering from the same form of fatal illness that he was diagnosed with early 2011, Motor Neuron Disease.
Joost has created a platform through this foundation to allow people, companies and friends to support the quality of life programs available within this organisation.
The J9 Foundation fosters intimate dialogues with those living with ALS, their families and caregivers. Our approach draws from our hands-on experience, as we continually strive to understand the overwhelming dynamics that ALS families endure.
We welcome all of your questions and requests...
“Life is not measured by the amount of years lived, but by the amount of memories created”
Joost van der Westhuizen | J9 Foundation
What is MND
Motor neuron disease is a degenerative disorder of the motor neurons which control voluntary muscle activity such as speaking, swallowing, breathing and walking. Disruptions arise in the signal from the motor neurons in the brain, brainstem and spinal cord resulting in gradual weakening, wasting, and twitching ( known as fasciculations) of the muscles. Read More.....
What J9 Does...
The direct services offered through our main program, the ALS Patient, Family, and Caregiver Quality of Life Program, include making home visits, answering basic requests for information and referral, guiding families through intimate dialogue about disease progression, dying and death, coping with a spouse’s death, and other issues related to ALS. Read More.....
Cruel Fate has no favourites when it chooses victims; tragedy can strike anyone.
South African rugby hero, Joost van der Westhuizen learned this when he was diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease, a crippling illness that attacks the central nervous system, causing disability and death. But where others might struggle to accept their lot, Joost has tackled it with dignity … and humour.
