The Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) charity has announced an expansion of its services, raising the upper age limit from 28 to 35 years. This change allows adults living with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) to access the charity's fully funded and accessible Muscle Dream experiences.
Background and Motivation
Founded in 2003 by Michael McGrath MBE, the charity originally provided children and young people aged eight to 28 with personalised wish-fulfilment experiences called Muscle Dreams. Due to increased life expectancy for those with muscle-wasting conditions, particularly Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the charity decided to extend its programmes. McGrath noted improvements in pharmacological interventions, treatment options, supportive care, and technology like BiPAP ventilation, which have extended median life expectancy into the late 20s to early 30s, though outcomes vary.
Trustees' Decision
After reviewing service provision and consulting stakeholders, trustees unanimously agreed to extend eligibility to age 35. Over 96% of beneficiaries have DMD, the most severe and life-limiting variant. McGrath stated, "Recognising that over 96 per cent of the charity’s beneficiaries are those living with DMD... the time to extend in-person and virtual services is now."
Muscle Dream Experiences
MHF offers in-person and virtual Muscle Dreams year-round, including accessible powerboating, flying, the flagship Porsche programme (celebrating its 15th anniversary at Silverstone), and virtual wellbeing sessions. Bespoke 1:1 experiences have included being a zookeeper for a day, bushcraft with Ray Mears, interviewing Al Pacino, and meeting Lewis Hamilton or Harry Hill. Each experience includes travel, hotel, and subsistence allowances, designed to boost confidence, reduce isolation, and enhance social connection.
Testimonial from Healthcare Professional
Emma Lowe, Senior Nurse at Salford Care Organisation, nominated a young person with DMD for a gaming-themed Muscle Dream. She said, "I simply have no words for the amazing efforts... this is something that will mean the world to David and them forever more. ... Your charity has given me and my team hope."
Future Outlook
McGrath added, "Mindful of those adults living longer lives and despite the increasing complexities, our Muscle Dream experiences exist to remind those facing life’s toughest challenges that extraordinary moments... are still within reach." Nominations for programmes are open year-round from parents, siblings, self-nominations, healthcare professionals, and others. More information is available at the charity's website.
