Edition 5 of the 'You are Strong' Newsletter from Harrison's Fund

We’re proud to be taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge again, with a goal of raising £12,000 to support our Chrysalis Grant Programme. To get started, we need pledgers to commit to the first £3,000 by 28th August. These early pledges unlock matched funding during the campaign week. Every pound raised will go twice as far in supporting the mental health of families living with Duchenne. Be part of something big—because families need more than hope. They need help.

This month in Ask Max, Maxine shares her family's honest experience of taking part in a Duchenne clinical trial for over eight years. From early starts and invasive procedures to the strength of community and the hope that fuels every visit—this is a powerful insight into what trials truly mean for families.

Claire Hendrick is running the Royal Parks Half Marathon in support of her friend Maxine and Maxine’s son Austin, who lives with Duchenne. Claire’s been inspired by their strength, courage, and positivity, and is fundraising for Harrison’s Fund to support families just like theirs. With every mile, Claire is raising awareness of a condition few people know—but many are bravely living with every day. Read her moving story of friendship, motherhood, and motivation.

Five friends. One final Grand Tour. The Giro d’Willtalia will see Will Jackson-Moore and his teammates cycle over 4,000km in 22 days, climbing 48,000m to raise £20,000 for three vital causes—Cancer Research UK, Herts Young Homeless, and Harrison’s Fund. It’s the third chapter in a challenge that began in 2018, honouring the 1968 Grand Tours and driven by a deep commitment to help families living with Duchenne and other life-altering conditions.

Edition 4 of the 'You are Strong' Newsletter from Harrison's Fund

Cobham Ladies Choir and the Surrey Rainbow Choir filled St Paul’s Church with music and meaning, raising vital funds for our Chrysalis mental health programme. It was an evening of harmony, hope, and heartfelt generosity—where every note helped support families facing Duchenne. With powerful performances and moving speeches, the night reminded us how community and compassion can create real change.

School transitions can be exciting—and overwhelming—especially for families navigating Duchenne. This month in Ask Max, our Family Support Advisor shares her personal experience, tips for a smoother transition, and a gentle reminder that you’re not alone. From EHCP updates to emotional prep, Maxine covers the challenges and the hope this season brings.

Volunteers are the heartbeat of Harrison’s Fund. From helping at events to sharing skills behind the scenes, their time and care make a real difference. This Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating every person who’s helped us go further, reach more families, and bring vital mental health support to those facing Duchenne. Whether you’ve raised funds, spread the word, or offered your time—we see you, and we’re so grateful. Thinking of joining in? There’s never been a better time t

Edition 2 of the 'You are Strong' Newsletter from Harrison's Fund

4 Mental Health Tips from Dr. Kirsty Gregory Supporting Duchenne families this Mental Health Awareness Week. At Harrison’s Fund, we know that living with Duchenne affects far more than just the body—it impacts the heart and mind too. That’s why mental health is a core part of the support we offer, through initiatives like our Chrysalis Grants and expert guidance from Clinical Psychologist Dr. Kirsty Gregory.

With community at the heart of Mental Health Awareness Week, Michael McGrath MBE highlights the urgent need to support young people—especially those living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. In this blog, he explores the rising mental health challenges and shines a spotlight on Harrison’s Fund’s Project Chrysalis, a vital initiative offering funded access to expert psychological support for families affected by DMD.

Cobham Ladies Choir, fondly known as “The Choir with a Heart,” is once again raising their voices for Harrison’s Fund. Their upcoming charity concert, Summer Notes, features uplifting music, special guests, and heartfelt performances—all in support of families living with Duchenne. With a long history of supporting our work, their energy and compassion continue to inspire. Don’t miss this celebration of community, music, and impact.

Edition 2 of the 'You are Strong' Newsletter from Harrison's Fund

We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the wonderful Carole Ann, founder of Truly Carole Ann, to the Harrison’s Fund family! Carole Ann is bringing style, heart, and community together with a Charity Fashion Show & Garden Party — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it. In Aid of Harrison’s Fund on Friday 25th April, 10am – 2pm at the Truly Carole Ann Studio, Maplehurst, Ashtead, Surrey. Cost £5 (pre-purchase only and includes a raffle ticket!)

We’re thrilled to share an exciting update in our Fundraiser Stories series — Dan Nathan, who is running three marathons in 2025 in support of Harrison’s Fund, has officially completed his first major milestone: the Paris Marathon, which took place on Sunday, 13th April.

Supporting the Mental Health of Families Affected by Duchenne. Stress Awareness Month is a time to pause and reflect on the emotional challenges we carry, especially for those living with or caring for someone with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Whether you’re a young person managing life with Duchenne or a parent, carer, or healthcare provider supporting them, stress can show up in many forms: fatigue, anxiety, loneliness, overwhelm, or simply the quiet mental weight of day-to

Dan is running three marathons (in Paris, Stockholm, and Cannes), along with several half-marathons and 10k events, to raise awareness and funds for Harrison’s Fund, the UK’s first charity specifically focused on the mental health needs of families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Episode 1 of the freshly redesigned Newsletter from Harrison's Fund

incredibly proud to share a huge milestone: we have now funded 150 sessions of clinical psychology through the Chrysalis Grants programme