Mum, charity founder hosting Cairns treasure hunt to raise money for son’s rare disease

A treasure hunt throughout Cairns will raise vital funds for a rare disease while also providing a boost for small businesses.

Founder of Moyamoya Australia Nicola Baker and son Jed Baker. Picture: Supplied.

A treasure hunt throughout Cairns will raise vital funds for a rare and profressive disease that has impacted the organiser’s son.

The Smokey Blue rally, raising money for Moyamoya disease, is a “choose your own adventure” rally which will send participants across Cairns to complete challenges and collect different prizes on Saturday, May 3.

Held annually to celebrate World Moyamoya Day, the event was previously held in the Atherton Tablelands.

“You don’t know what gustatorial delights you’ll be offered, you don’t know what challenges you’ll be given,” Nicola Baker, founder of charity Moyamoya Australia, said.

Ms Baker started Moyamoya Australia because of her son Jed, who has the condition.

Moyamoya disease is a rare and progressive condition where arteries at the base of the brain are blocked, causing reduced blood flow and stroke.

It affects roughly 1 in a million people in Australia, mostly children.

The organisation raises money for research into the condition’s causes and potential treatments, and provides support and financial assistance for families affected by the disease.

Now 21, Jed had his first stroke at just 11 months old. Pictured with mum Nicola Baker. Picture: Supplied

“Moyamoya is not well known,” Ms Baker said.

“(When Jed was diagnosed), we didn’t know anyone with the disease.

“We had no one we could talk to … so the basis (of the organisation) is to let our patients know, you are not alone.”

Ms Baker said her dream was a cure for Moyamoya or understanding its cause.

To date, the organisation has raised more than $100,000 for research efforts and affected families.

“Through this rally, we want to shine a light on the challenges families like ours face while having a great time on the road,” Ms Baker said of the upcoming rally.

It costs $55 to enter a vehicle in the rally, and participants are encouraged to wear or decorate their car in blue, the colour representing Moyamoya awareness.

Once participants finish the race at Brothers Leagues Club Cairns, they’ll be treated to live music by Carinda Christie Band and a presentation for the winners.

To enter a team, click visit moyamoyaaustralia.org.au/smokey-blue/. Registrations close on Thursday, May 1.

To donate to Moyamoya Australia, visit moyamoyaaustralia.org.au/donate/

Originally published as Mum, charity founder hosting Cairns treasure hunt to raise money for son’s rare disease