TogetherWeRise: The Power of Collaboration in the Duchenne Community

At Harrison’s Fund, we know that fighting Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is about more than just one organisation’s efforts. It’s about a community working together, sharing knowledge, and combining resources to make a greater impact. That’s why we believe in the power of collaboration with like-minded charities—because together, we can achieve so much more.

Recently, we had the privilege of engaging with The Muscle Help Foundation, an organisation that shares our commitment to supporting families affected by Duchenne. Our experience with them reinforced our belief that small charities must work together to ensure that every family gets the help they need. Michael McGrath, CEO invited Maxine, our Chrysalis Grants and Fundraising Manager to speak about her experiences with Duchenne, she has a young son Austin with the condition and was a recipient of a Muscle Dream from the charity.

“It was truly an honour to be invited by The Muscle Help Foundation to speak at their trustees and strategy meeting. The experience was both deeply fulfilling and profoundly emotional. Listening to other parents share their daily experiences of life with Duchenne was not only eye-opening but also incredibly impactful, offering me a glimpse into the future of my own son’s journey.

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Amanda Brain, from Jacks Place Hospice for Children and Young Adults / University Hospital Southampton. She spoke about palliative care for young adults with Duchenne, and it was especially moving. Her words reinforced the critical importance of mental health support for families navigating the challenges of a Duchenne diagnosis.

I’m deeply grateful to Michael McGrath for the invitation and for the opportunity to be a part of such a meaningful day.”

This experience highlighted the importance of mental health care and the vital role collaboration plays in ensuring no family is left behind. As a small charity, we understand the challenges that come with limited resources, but we also know that when organisations unite, their collective strength grows exponentially. Partnering with charities allows us to combine expertise, expand our reach, and ultimately provide better support to those who need it most.

We firmly believe that it’s not about competition—it’s about impact. By working together, we can offer more comprehensive services, from mental health support to respite care and life-enriching experiences.

If you believe in the power of collaboration and want to see small charities come together for a greater cause, we’d love your support. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your help makes a difference.

#TogetherWeRise