Thank you for taking the time to look at our page. Here's a bit about why we have chosen to put on our running shoes once again and support this cause inspired by the most amazing liitle boy and his amazing Mum whom we've met at school. We are honoured to be running in support of this charity that helps families like Austins all the time.

We first met Austin and his Mum, Maxine, through our local primary school, where our children all attend. Before meeting them, we were unfamiliar with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. We have witnessed the challenges Austin faces with frequent medical appointments and he does it without complaint and always with a smile on his face. As parents to a son, we can’t imagine the immense emotions Maxine must experience, having a child with a life limiting, fatal muscle wasting illness is devastating. This has inspired us to support families affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

To help raise funds we have decided to take part in The Royal Parks Half Marathon on October 12th 2025. The stunning 13.1-mile route takes in many of the capital’s world-famous landmarks on closed roads, and four of London’s eight Royal Parks – Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens.

Who are Harrison’s Fund?

Founded in 2012 by Alex and Donna Smith in honour of their son Harrison who was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Over the past decade, the charity has made significant strides in raising awareness and funds for Duchenne research.

While Harrison’s Fund has always been driven by the mission to find a cure for Duchenne, the organisation has recognised a critical unmet need within the Duchenne community: the mental health and emotional well-being of families affected by this devastating disease. I want to help as many families as possible who have received a Duchenne diagnosis, access the mental health support they so desperately need.

What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?

This was our first question as we had never heard of it ....

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe life changing and life shortening genetic disorder.

It causes progressive muscle weakness and degeneration, primarily affecting boys. It results from a lack of dystrophin, a protein essential for muscle function. Symptoms typically start in early childhood and worsen over time. Duchenne is life limiting, fatal and no current cure or treatment is available.

What will our donation be used for?

All donations will go directly towards the costs of family counselling and support sessions with clinical psychologists.

Thank you so much for your support.