Millie Bampton, a 25-year-old woman from Tamworth with a life-limiting condition, is walking 150 miles this July to raise awareness and funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK. Diagnosed with limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) at age seven, she faces daily challenges that her 13-year-old sister, Lola, who has the same condition and has never been able to walk, also endures.
Daily Struggles with a Progressive Condition
LGMD causes muscle wasting and weakness, making everyday activities like climbing stairs or standing physically exhausting. Millie's 150-mile journey throughout July symbolizes these daily struggles. “At school I often found PE lessons difficult, especially activities involving running, jumping and just generally keeping up with my classmates. At the time, I didn't understand why these things were harder for me, until I was diagnosed with LGMD,” she said.
Sisterly Support and Resilience
Her sister Lola was tested and diagnosed as a baby but has never been able to walk. “Having each other has been a huge source of strength for us,” Millie explained. “As sisters, we understand what it’s like to live with LGMD in a way that very few people can, and we support each other through the good and bad days.” Despite the uncertain future, Millie remains determined to achieve her goals.
A Grueling Challenge
Throughout July, Millie plans to walk five miles every day along local routes and countryside trails. “Walking 150 miles in a month would be hard for most – but it’ll be 10 times harder for me,” she said. “For many people, going for a walk is something they don't think twice about. For me, every mile requires extra effort. The best way to describe it, is like walking with heavy weights attached to your legs while your muscles gradually become more fatigued with every step. Some days will be more challenging than others.”
Raising Funds for Research
Living without a cure is frustrating, but the challenge has made Millie resilient. She aims to shine a light on the realities of LGMD and help fund vital research. “There’s still so much that people don’t know about this condition. More funding is desperately needed to help improve treatments, support individuals and their families, and fund vital research towards better outcomes for the future,” she said. “While LGMD is part of my life, it doesn’t define who I am, and I’m going to prove that in July.”
To support Millie's fundraiser, visit musculardystrophyuk.org/millie. For more information on Muscular Dystrophy UK, visit their website or call 0800 652 6352.
