Hamza Salih was the 14th member of his paternal family to be diagnosed across four generations with motor neuron disease.
The 40-year-old Sydenham man died on April 20, eight months after being diagnosed with the terminal disease in which nerves controlling muscles that allow speech, breathing, movement and swallow degenerate and die.
He leaves behind his wife, Betul, and their two daughters, aged nine and 12.
Mrs Salih’s cousin, Aksel Ahmet, and his wife, Natalie, have organised a fundraising dinner to support the family.
Ms Ahmet said all 280 tickets to the May 13 event at Lakeside Banquet and Convention Centre in Taylors Lakes sold out within two weeks.
“Hamza was a much-loved member of the community,” she said.
“Everyone has banded together to show their respect and admiration for this man. He left an impact on everyone who came into contact with him.”
For people wanting to make a donation to Mr Salih’s wife and daughters, the Ahmets have set up a bank account. BSB: 013 599. Account: 222 057 053
