Why We Love What We Do

Our Mission

We are driven by care, not profit. Our purpose is to strengthen the MSA community across Australia by increasing awareness, supporting earlier diagnosis, and ensuring people affected by MSA can access the information, support, and connection they need — wherever they live.

Connection

Creating a safe, understanding space where individuals, families, and carers feel seen, supported, and less alone.

Compassion

Leading with empathy, kindness, and genuine care for every person’s experience and journey.

Community

Building a warm, supportive network across Australia where people can find guidance, belonging, and shared strength.

Hear From Our Community

Get Inspired by these family stories

Behind every diagnosis is a network of people who show up with strength, care, and unwavering support. These stories highlight the families who walk the journey together, reminding us that community makes all the difference.

Romano Family

"The more we learn, the more capable we are of supporting those who need it most."

There’s no ‘I’ in team and Olivia and her family embody that unity.

Their strength reflects the heart of our MSA community: we support one another, stay connected, and show up when it matters most.

Leon's Story

"Knowledge may not cure a disease, but it cures the silence around it."

Knowledge creates understanding, and understanding creates change. The more we talk about MSA, the more we break the silence surrounding this rare disease.

Meet Our Board of Directors

MSAA is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who bring a shared commitment to integrity, compassion, and community impact. The Board provides strategic oversight, governance, and leadership to ensure MSAA remains focused on its purpose and responsive to the needs of the MSA community.

Each Director brings a depth of experience, professional expertise, and a strong alignment with MSAA’s values — working collectively to guide the organisation with care, responsibility, and long-term vision.

Cherie Miller

"I became a Founding Director of Multiple System Atrophy Australia in 2020, after witnessing my father’s experience with the disease. His late diagnosis and the speed of his decline made it painfully clear how little awareness and support existed for families like ours.

Wanting to make sure others wouldn’t feel as alone as we did, I helped establish the organisation to improve awareness, education and advocacy. Today, I bring that lived experience into everything I do, working with compassion and a deep commitment to better information, clearer care pathways and stronger support for everyone affected by MSA across Australia."

Olivia Romano

“I became a Founding Director of Multiple System Atrophy Australia in April of 2020, after my dad passed from this devastating disease in 2016 at just 67. Watching him suffer with MSA was heartbreaking and frustrating, and this is why the charity means so much to my family and me. We’re dedicated to raising both crucial research funds and awareness. It truly takes a village to make an impact—we can’t do it alone.”

Andy Macindoe

“My uncle, Ian, was diagnosed with MSA in 2008. His 13-year battle inspired me to highlight the journeys of those affected by this debilitating disease. I produced a documentary capturing Ian’s story, providing an intimate look into MSA’s impact. This experience fueled my drive to advocate for greater understanding and resources for those affected. Through ‘MSA Australia,’ we’re working with partners to support families, raise awareness, and fund vital research to better understand and manage this insidious disease.”

Ross Mclennan

"In 2006, seven years after his diagnosis, my Dad, Donald, passed away from Multiple System Atrophy. Having experienced this disease’s impact firsthand, I became an active fundraiser in the UK, helping my Mum start an MSA support network in Northwest England. My connection to MSA’s mission brought me to Multiple System Atrophy Australia, where I now contribute my healthcare leadership experience to help build strong teams and governance. Alongside the MSAA team and our supporters, I’m committed to creating a better future for those affected by MSA"

Bek Gathercole

"My Dad John, lived with MSA-P for ten years before passing peacefully at home in 2023. Throughout his journey with MSA, it was difficult to find information and support for our family, which is why I am passionate about being part of the team who is building an informed, connected and compassionate community so no one affected by MSA feels alone. With over 20 years in education, I am determined to improve awareness of MSA among healthcare professionals, and I am committed to helping families navigate this disease."

Why Our Work is Important

The MSAA Board is guided by values that reflect the heart of the organisation:

Service Before Self

Prioritising the needs of people affected by MSA

Ethical Leadership

With clear accountability and transparency

Respect & Inclusion

Valuing lived experience and diverse perspectives

Lasting Impact

Ensuring decisions support meaningful, lasting outcomes

Why we need you

Multiple System Atrophy Australia (MSAA) exists to support people living with MSA, the families and carers who walk alongside them, and the professionals working to improve understanding and care. MSA is a rare and complex condition, and too often people are left navigating uncertainty, delayed diagnosis, and limited access to support — particularly outside major cities.

We’re here to change that.

MSAA works to build connection, understanding, and support across the MSA community through education, advocacy, awareness, and practical resources. Everything we do is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and a deep commitment to ensuring no one faces MSA alone.

Donate Today

"Their dedication, alongside the strength of our volunteers, families, and everyone touched by an MSA diagnosis or loss, is what keeps this mission moving forward."

About Multiple System Atrophy Australia