The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has run Family Weekends in Northern Ireland for the past 11 years. They have proved to be an effective way of making a positive difference to the lives of those who live with muscle disease, so that is why we are now planning similar events across the UK in 2008.

Families getting to know each other at the 2007 Family Weekend in Northern IrelandFamily Weekends allow families to enjoy much needed respite in a relaxed and friendly environment. Disability friendly activities, such as sport and art workshops, allow families to make connections, forge friendships and share advice and information. Here is what people had to say about past family weekends:

“I enjoy family weekends because I get to talk to people the same as me and we give each other advice. You get to ask things you wouldn’t ask your mum or a doctor.” Suzanne Glover, a teenager with muscle disease.

"This is the one opportunity we have to get together with people who know our problems, who have similar problems and who need help in different areas.” Doreen Anderson, mother of a child with muscle disease.

Details about family weekends in 2008 will be available shortly.