Claire’s Half Marathon for Hope: Running for Austin, for Maxine, and for Every Family Facing Duchenne

Claire Hendrick and the Royal Park Half

When Claire Hendrick first met Maxine and her son Austin at the school gates of their local primary, she had never heard of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. It was a casual meeting—just two parents chatting between drop-offs and pick-ups. But what began as a passing friendship quickly grew into something far more profound.

“I first met Austin and his Mum, Maxine, at our local primary school, in the playground,” Claire recalls. “Maxine and I realised we shared some common interests and were running the Edinburgh Marathon at the same time in 2024. Since then, we’ve become friends—and now our children are classmates.”

Through that connection, Claire began to learn more about the realities of living with Duchenne. The daily impact, the silent strain, and the immense courage it takes—not just for the child, but for the whole family.

“Before meeting them, I was totally unfamiliar with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,” she explains. “Since then, I’ve witnessed the daily challenges Austin faces—together with frequent early starts and long journeys for medical appointments, which he does without complaint and always with a smile on his face.”

It’s this spirit—the quiet bravery, the relentless schedule, and the love that shines through every setback—that inspired Claire to take action. This October, she’ll be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon in support of Harrison’s Fund and our mental health work for Duchenne families.

“As a parent, I can’t imagine the immense emotions Maxine must experience, having a child with a life-limiting, fatal muscle-wasting illness. It’s heartbreaking and devastating,” she says. “Maxine is a true figure of strength and resilience in all she faces on this journey with Austin.”

Claire is one of those amazing supporters who not only sees the need but chooses to show up in a powerful way. The Royal Parks Half Marathon isn’t just a beautiful 13.1-mile run through four of London’s iconic parks—it’s a heartfelt commitment to help families feel seen, supported, and surrounded.

“Both Maxine and Austin are two of the most inspirational people I have met,” Claire adds. “Despite the emotional and physical challenges they face each and every day, they continue to keep striving and overcoming them. Maxine’s dedication has inspired me to support her and Austin, and other families affected by Duchenne.”

Every step Claire takes will raise funds for Project Chrysalis—our pioneering mental health support programme, which offers therapy, coaching, and emotional care for parents, siblings, and carers navigating the Duchenne diagnosis.

“To help raise funds, I will be taking part in The Royal Parks Half Marathon on 12th October 2025,” she says. “The stunning route takes in many of the capital’s world-famous landmarks and Royal Parks—including Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park, and Kensington Gardens. I can’t wait!”

At Harrison’s Fund, we know that fundraising isn’t just about events or totals. It’s about people. It’s about moments of connection, generosity, and choosing to care. Claire’s run embodies all of that.

Let’s help her hit her target—and in doing so, help more Duchenne families feel a little less alone.

📍Support Claire's fundraising here