Bob and Irene Glover lost their son, Stuart, to Duchenne muscular dystrophy when he was just 16 years old. Find out why they have chosen this special type of gift to honour Stuart’s memory.
Our son Stuart, our second child, was slowly developing compared to other kids. I eventually persuaded one of the younger GPs to refer us to a specialist, because I was certain—absolutely certain—that something wasn’t right.
After seeing various specialists, we received the eventual diagnosis: Stuart had Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
As Stuart got older things became more difficult. After his back operation, he said to Irene, “It’ll give me more time, Mum.”
These boys—most of them knew they weren’t going to have long lives. But they were amazingly strong. You think about how hard it is for us… but what about them?
We’ve been involved with Muscular Dystrophy UK since the beginning to raise money. Bob would counsel families after a diagnosis—offering advice on benefits, and little things that help with everyday life.
So many of these families with a child with muscular dystrophy aren’t well off. It isn’t cheap to have a disabled child. You need vehicles, electric wheelchairs, and all sorts of adaptations to the house. But those things can be found—with the right advice. MDUK helps provide that.
We’ve left a gift to MDUK in our will. Because we need a cure—and that doesn’t happen overnight. But we know the money will go to support families: for equipment, advice on benefits, and a whole raft of support ideas that make a real difference.
One of the reasons we’re proud to support this campaign is that it gives a lasting memory of Stuart. His school friends, his supporters, our friends—he made an impact on all of them.
He was a very happy, cheerful child. He had a whole life. I know he died young, but he still had a whole life.
A diagnosis of a muscle wasting or weakening condition shouldn’t define anyone’s story.
That’s why we’re funding groundbreaking research that will make long term treatments – and even cures – a reality.
For over 60 years, we’ve helped people to stay independent, grow careers and start families. We’ve come a long way, but it’s not enough.
Together, we can change the story for good. Leave a gift in your Will.
