From Grief to Grit: How Ange Teulon is Turning Love Into Action to Fight MND

When Ange Teulon, co-founder of Simple Ceremonies, lost her sister Jane to Motor Neurone Disease (MND), her life changed forever. But Ange refused to let grief have the final say.

Instead, she transformed her heartbreak into a powerful force for good, leading a movement that’s as bold as it is beautiful—and it all starts with love.

Running Toward a Cure

In 2022, Ange ran the Melbourne Half Marathon in memory of her sister Jane. Fuelled by purpose and community, she raised over $100,000 for FightMND, helping fund vital research and support services.

“It wasn’t just about crossing the finish line,” Ange says. “It was about carrying Jane’s fight forward, every single step of the way.”

💍 The Birth of Big Freeze Weddings

Inspired by the iconic Big Freeze and the unstoppable Neale Daniher, Ange dreamed up a new way to raise awareness: Big Freeze Weddings — 30-minute microweddings and vow renewals held in actual ice baths, with Sydney Harbour Bridge as the unforgettable backdrop.

Yes, couples are literally taking the plunge to say “I do,” and 100% of proceeds go to FightMND.

“It’s emotional, unforgettable, and freezing cold,” Ange laughs. “But the impact? That’s what really takes your breath away.”

Why Choose a Big Freeze Wedding?

- Get Married with Purpose: For just $150, say your vows and complete all the legal paperwork—knowing every dollar goes directly to FightMND.

- Renew Your Commitment: Already married? Reaffirm your love for $70 and stand with those fighting MND.

- Snap the Plunge: Add crisp memories with our Simple Snaps Open Air Photo Booth for FREE. It’s joining us to capture every chill, thrill, and heartfelt moment as you plunge into "I do."

Meet Our Sponsor: Plunge Right

We’re proud to be sponsored by Plunge Right, founded by Blake and Courtney. After losing a mate’s mum to MND, they were both so happy to jump in to assist. Their cutting-edge iceless systems offer an easy, affordable way to experience the healing power of cold therapy.

“I first discovered cold plunging after workouts,” Blake says. “The energy, the circulation—it was a game-changer. Now we’re using that same power to support people fighting MND.”

A Cause Close to Home

Ange’s story didn’t stop with Jane. Her close friend Alice also lost her beloved mum, Janie to MND, a heartbreak that rippled through their circle. “It’s not just my story anymore,” Ange says. “It’s Alice’s. It’s Blake and Courtney’s. It’s yours. It’s ours. And it’s why we must fight harder—because MND touches more lives than we realise, and love is our loudest response.”

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❄️ What’s Coming in 2025

With Big Freeze 2025 fast approaching, we’re turning up the impact:

- Dozens of ice bath weddings and vow renewals throughout June

- All proceeds donated — $150 for the legal ceremony, $80 for vow renewals and commitment ceremonies.

- Exclusive FightMND wedding certificates for every couple—plus all the legally binding paperwork, including your official NSW marriage certificate. Perfect for couples seeking a unique, meaningful, and fully legal wedding experience in Sydney.

- National awareness driven through courage, community, and love

This isn’t just a wedding. It’s a wedding for a cause.

Understanding the Beast We’re Fighting

Motor neurone disease (MND) is cruel and relentless. It gradually robs people of movement, speech, and the ability to breathe — often within just 27 months of diagnosis. Since 2014, FightMND has raised over $115 million, funding groundbreaking research to find a cure.

But we’re just at basecamp. With every icy plunge, every vow, and every donation, we’re climbing toward a future free of MND.

🙌 How You Can Help

Whether you’re getting married, renewing your vows, or simply inspired by Ange’s mission, here’s how you can join the fight:

💙 Book a Big Freeze Wedding

💙 Share this story with your community

💙 Donate directly to FightMND

💙 Help us freeze out this disease — one icy vow at a time

Love Courageously. Marry Generously. Fight MND Boldly.

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