Muscular Dystrophy really is a horrible condition. My son was misdiagnosed with this condition last year. He is 3 and has difficulty walking, he is always up on his toes and a little awkward (other than that he seems fine) although he can kick a football run around etc.
We were sent to an orthopeadic doctor who did a blood test and was then referred to Great ormond Street after being told that Duchenne was very likely and that it couldn't be much else.
We spent two weeks waiting for our appointment thinking that this is what he had and it was in that time that we learned how dreadful DMD is. Thankfully after further tests at GOSH this was ruled out (although tests are ongoing the problem is suspected to be far less serious than Muscular dystrophy)
I said during that two weeks no matter what the outcome I would do something positive. I have stuck to my word and will be running the London marathon in April for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. They provide funding for medical research, help support family's and raise awarness of this terrible muscle wasting disease.
There is no cure for MD but there is real hope on the horizon with clinical trials taking place and stem cell research is the key.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DavidCourtney
Above is my just giving page. If anyone would like to donate even the smallest amount it would be going to a very worthwhile cause.
Dont know about anyone else but i took time out today at 1130 and just tried to think about what that poor family have ahead of them and to remember someone i cant even place a face too, it also go me thinking about whats important to me right now and make sure i make time again for my kids as i have been a bit career motivated for the last 12months. The story has really registered with me i really do think you done a remarkable thing you may not realise it but you did.
I hope the poor lad is truely at peace and his family find solice in eachother and strength to rebuild
I suddenly lost the use of my legs following a rare marrow infection last october. Details of my ordeal are insignificant compared to Adam's suffering. I've regained 75% of my mobility which should enable me to attend the Peterboro game. My clapping will be very very emotional. RIP Adam. God bless your family. Good work VFR, thank you for sharing this sad story which will be remembered by all.
I've just got back from the funeral and celebration of Adams life. It was a terrific occasion, full of sadness but ultimately we all ended up sharing stories about what Adam brought to our lives. He was a great kid, a total inspiration.
One thing I discovered was that I was the person responsible for his love of Charlton athletic, he wasn't that bothered before I started working with him. Regardless of how he ended up supporting Charlton, it was such a major part of his life, to see his coffin draped with the Charlton flag and a photo of him sitting in the Valley said it all.
I appreciate all the good wishes people have sent me but really I was just doing what I thought was right. Also, there were lots of people who cared for him, people who did so day in and day out out of sheer love.
VFR, you have my respect. I doubt you consider what you brought to Adam to be noble, you probably and rightly just think that that's simply being a friend to someone who needs it, but your caring helped make the world a brighter place...we should all do so well.
I also wanted to pay respect to Prince-e-Paul and others on this thread who have dedicated themselves to caring for others who need the help.
I encounter people with profound disabilities daily in my work, and always amazed at the limitless capacity for caring within those people who, whether professionally or not, without fanfare, help them get through (and enjoy) each day.
Dont know about anyone else but i took time out today at 1130 and just tried to think about what that poor family have ahead of them and to remember someone i cant even place a face too, it also go me thinking about whats important to me right now and make sure i make time again for my kids as i have been a bit career motivated for the last 12months. The story has really registered with me i really do think you done a remarkable thing you may not realise it but you did.
I hope the poor lad is truely at peace and his family find solice in eachother and strength to rebuild
I echo NLA's comments, I went on U Tube at 11:25 and found the VFR song (the 4 minute version) and at 11:30 clicked play, thought of Adam (someone I never knew) and sang as best I could hoping he may hear my voice in the place he is now.
I hope VFR that you remember the good times that you had together, god bless you sir, and once again RIP Adam.
I went to brent knoll school as well , Adam was a massive charlton fan always saw him at the home games , and at school wearing his charlton hat , is valley-Floyd-red Richard? All my thoughts are with Adams family , at least he is at peace now rip Adam
I went to brent knoll school as well , Adam was a massive charlton fan always saw him at the home games , and at school wearing his charlton hat , is valley-Floyd-red Richard? All my thoughts are with Adams family , at least he is at peace now rip Adam
Yes Matt it's me. There were a few from Brent Knoll at the funeral; Mason, James Marsh, Chelsie, Joanne, Crystal and Jonathan Meesho. It was great to see them all again, all grown up now. We had good chats about all the things we used to do together, like the trip to Arethusia.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the whole Charlton first team signed a shirt for his funeral. See you on Saturday in the North upper Matt.
That is really nice of charlton , have alot of respect for you Richard you helped Adam out alot and you did your fair bit getting him to follow charlton , you was always kind to all the pupils there and you even taught me VFR all them years ago , and shall do Richard always there every home game , cmon u reds :)
Thank you, Richard. Adam and me are so lucky to have met you. You are a very special person to do what you have done and continue to do. Thank you also to others that have commented on here. Adam was a devoted Charlton fan and even though I am a Chelsea fan, Charlton are not far behind and I now love them too. xx
David Courtney, thank you for running the marathon in aid of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. I've sent a small donation on the Virgin site in memory of Adam. Wishing you all the best with your son. Bless you. xx
VFR - sounds like you should be very proud of all your work, I wish my work was as rewarding, and reading this post has really made me realise I need to get out there and do some sort of volunteering to give something back.
Just wanted to say thanks again to the people that have donated on my page. The money is going towards a really worthwhile cause so thanks very much.
Amanda, It is an honour to run for Muscular dystrophy and I am humbled that you would take the time to donate in what must be a very difficult time for you. It sounds like Adam was lovely young man and a credit to his family. You will both be in my thoughts on the day for sure.
Comments
Very moving VFR, you certainly helped to brighten his life.
You're a good man, i'm sure Adam was grateful for your friendship.
RIP Adam, will be in my thoughts this morning.
VFR you have my utmost respect.
Thank you all.
Well done VFR for your efforts in enhancing Adam's quality of life.
RIP
Adam, RIP.
11.30AM.
We were sent to an orthopeadic doctor who did a blood test and was then referred to Great ormond Street after being told that Duchenne was very likely and that it couldn't be much else.
We spent two weeks waiting for our appointment thinking that this is what he had and it was in that time that we learned how dreadful DMD is. Thankfully after further tests at GOSH this was ruled out (although tests are ongoing the problem is suspected to be far less serious than Muscular dystrophy)
I said during that two weeks no matter what the outcome I would do something positive. I have stuck to my word and will be running the London marathon in April for the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. They provide funding for medical research, help support family's and raise awarness of this terrible muscle wasting disease.
There is no cure for MD but there is real hope on the horizon with clinical trials taking place and stem cell research is the key.
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DavidCourtney
Above is my just giving page. If anyone would like to donate even the smallest amount it would be going to a very worthwhile cause.
Thanks
I am very touched
Reading that really makes you think.
RIP Adam.
I hope today went as well as it could do,
Dont know about anyone else but i took time out today at 1130 and just tried to think about what that poor family have ahead of them and to remember someone i cant even place a face too, it also go me thinking about whats important to me right now and make sure i make time again for my kids as i have been a bit career motivated for the last 12months. The story has really registered with me i really do think you done a remarkable thing you may not realise it but you did.
I hope the poor lad is truely at peace and his family find solice in eachother and strength to rebuild
I've regained 75% of my mobility which should enable me to attend the Peterboro game. My clapping will be very very emotional.
RIP Adam.
God bless your family.
Good work VFR, thank you for sharing this sad story which will be remembered by all.
One thing I discovered was that I was the person responsible for his love of Charlton athletic, he wasn't that bothered before I started working with him. Regardless of how he ended up supporting Charlton, it was such a major part of his life, to see his coffin draped with the Charlton flag and a photo of him sitting in the Valley said it all.
I appreciate all the good wishes people have sent me but really I was just doing what I thought was right. Also, there were lots of people who cared for him, people who did so day in and day out out of sheer love.
Once again, thank you for all your good wishes.
I also wanted to pay respect to Prince-e-Paul and others on this thread who have dedicated themselves to caring for others who need the help.
I encounter people with profound disabilities daily in my work, and always amazed at the limitless capacity for caring within those people who, whether professionally or not, without fanfare, help them get through (and enjoy) each day.
Thank you VFR for making a difference.
I echo NLA's comments, I went on U Tube at 11:25 and found the VFR song (the 4 minute version) and at 11:30 clicked play, thought of Adam (someone I never knew) and sang as best I could hoping he may hear my voice in the place he is now.
I hope VFR that you remember the good times that you had together, god bless you sir, and once again RIP Adam.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the whole Charlton first team signed a shirt for his funeral. See you on Saturday in the North upper Matt.
VFR - sounds like you should be very proud of all your work, I wish my work was as rewarding, and reading this post has really made me realise I need to get out there and do some sort of volunteering to give something back.
Amanda, It is an honour to run for Muscular dystrophy and I am humbled that you would take the time to donate in what must be a very difficult time for you. It sounds like Adam was lovely young man and a credit to his family. You will both be in my thoughts on the day for sure.
Best wishes