Thanks for taking the time to visit this JustGiving page.

We created this page in memory of our dad, William Joyce, who died on 5 November 2019. Dad was diagnosed with Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM) in 1997, a rare and incurable muscle-wasting condition which causes muscles to become thin and weak. 

Dad battled the condition throughout his long illness, never letting it get the better of him and remaining as amazingly positive and full of life as he was before the diagnosis. Over the years he gradually became weaker due to the muscle wastage but was able to maintain a high quality of life and important independence through the use of electronic wheelchairs and other specialist apparatus. More important still was the love, care and support provided by his wife Margaret who tirelessly cared for dad from the outset, eventually becoming his full-time carer. 

Dad's unflinching optimism and good humour throughout, alongside mum's incredible care and devotion made them a real inspiration to all our family and friends.

Having seen the effects of this debilitating disease so close up, our family are keen to help other individuals and their families who find themselves in a similar position. Raising awareness of this rare condition will help ensure people have access to the specialist equipment they need and vital support from dedicated carers.

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