The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign

The Clapham based charity The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign does tireless work to raise awareness, money and support for those who have to live with the symptoms. Find out more about this charity, and what you could do to help...

What is muscular dystrophy?
Muscular Dystrophy (MD) is the gradual but relentless wasting and weakening of muscle tissue. Sometimes mild symptoms only begin to show in adulthood; sometimes children are so severely affected from birth that they do not have long to live. MD effects the muscles in many ways. Some people struggle to turn the pages of a book. Others find it difficult to smile because of damage to the muscles in their face. Some will die because their lungs can no longer function or their heart can no longer beat. Many parents will outlive their children. There are over 60 different forms of MD.

Who gets muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is not a disease you can "catch", but anyone can get it. It is usually inherited, but it can appear randomly. It affects babies, young children, young people and adults of any race and background. It is estimated that one in every 2,000 people in the UK has a neuromuscular condition.

What does the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign do?
The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign exists to help the 150,000 people in the UK that are affected by various life-limiting muscle diseases. We are the only national charity dealing with all forms of muscular dystrophy and related disorders. We continue to be a leader in worldwide research, responsible for helping to fund 50% of all major breakthroughs, developing treatments and working towards a cure with leading scientists. Through our Family Care Officers (FCO) network the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign provides unparalleled family care services across the UK for those who suffer from MD and for their families. These FCOs work to give people with MD maximum independence and quality of life. As an expert in MD they can offer advice, information, guidance on equipment, surgical procedures and access to benefits. They also provide emotional support to those newly diagnosed and existing patients and families. With the help of these FCOs, living with severe forms of MD can be made bearable.

Muscular Dystrophy Campaign: 020 7720 8055

Campaigners for the Muscular Dystrophy Charity