08 October 2007

This intimate documentary looked at the extraordinary courage of 19 year-old Stuart Wickison, a student at Treloar’s with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Despite his condition, Stuart’s determination to live as a normal teenager has never been stronger. He’s leaving the comforts of Treloar’s – a school and college for young people with severe disabilities to study art at university. This is a huge step for Stuart - at Treloar’s he has 24-hour medical support, physiotherapy and lives in an environment where people are accustomed to his needs. Now many of the services he takes for granted he will have to organise himself.

For Stuart’s mum and dad the move to art college is particularly stressful. They’ve cared for him all his life, now at a time when so many questions are being asked about his health, they have to let him go. For Stuart it’s the only option, as his desire to fulfil his dreams, even though he is living with a life limiting condition, has never been greater. This uplifting intimate film follows Stuart on a remarkable journey, as he pushes himself beyond his limits, overcoming obstacles to achieve his dreams.

Founded 100 years ago, Treloar’s is a college for severely disabled teenagers with a difference. It doesn’t believe in wrapping its students in cotton wool and hiding them from the world. Students are encouraged to live life as normal teenagers; they go clubbing, pubbing and have sexual relationships.

If any of the issues in this documentary affect you please call our Information and Support Line on 0800 652 6352 (freephone).