Huge thanks to David Allman on raising £870 for our charity. David, a Sales Director at Trust Hygiene, held a fundraising day at work to support the MD Support Centre. The superhero themed day also featured wheelchair races to give people an insight into David’s life while having fun.
Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at age 16, David relies on regular physiotherapy to maintain his strength, mobility, and overall quality of life. He shares why he chose to nominate MD Support Centre for the fundraising event:
“I really enjoy my job; it’s a big part of my life. Working with people every day and striving toward the same goal is a big drive for me. Another big drive is Lewis, my little one. I was diagnosed when I was just walking to school, after experiencing sudden pain in the back of my calf. At first, they thought it might be bone-related, but eventually, I was properly diagnosed at the QE in Birmingham. Over the years, I’ve moved from walking unaided, to crutches, to a manual wheelchair, and now a power chair. Covid wiped out the last bit of mobility I had for walking, and for the past three years, I’ve been adapting to life in the chair full-time.
“Physio is vital to my day-to-day life. I see Dan every three weeks if I can. When I go, I feel stretched, stronger, and healthier. He gets me on the tilt table, knows what he’s doing, and pushes me when I need it. That’s exactly what I need. It helps with pain, prevents muscles from weakening, and gives me a mental boost.
“I know the charity is stretched. There’s only one Dan, and travelling to other centres isn’t always possible. Ideally, I’d do physio every two weeks consistently. That’s another motivation for me to support the charity with fundraising. I know the NHS can only provide so much, but the charity fills the gap. I’m also very aware the charity needs funding to continue and take on more people.
“For me, the physio is absolutely essential. Without it, my life expectancy and quality of life would be worse. My mobility and strength would decline more quickly, and I’d have more pain. Physio sessions aren’t just exercise – they’re part of a support network, and I want to help others benefit too.”
Speaking after the event David shared his experience of fundraising for MD Support Centre. He said, “I really appreciate working with you and your team, the whole process has been straightforward with your help. From a personal point of view, it was important to give something back as the service has been a big help to me and we had lots of fun along the way. I know the funds will be very helpful in keeping the vital services you offer running to the high standards you all set.”