Turning Point Families Day at Thomley
On Saturday 22nd June Dougie and I met up with other families at Thomley for the Turning
Point families day.
Thomley is a place for people of all abilities and disabilities, and my son has been going
there for many years. We love how he can access play equipment and spend time in a safe
space amongst other children that live with a disability, and their families.
Dougie was thrilled to be meeting up with another young man living with Duchenne. From
the moment they met you could see they just had an understanding, and both seemed very
confident to be themselves around one another. At one point, they even held hands
momentarily while walking. A brief moment of ‘I’ve got you’ – unconditional understanding
and support.
They both really enjoyed the zipwire, and went on it many many times. We also enjoyed a
lovely lunch together and there was lots of chat. Dougie was also able to hear how his new
friend was getting on at secondary school, which he is due to start in September. It was also
great for me to hear about this, as it really helped settle down my worries and anxieties I
have about this transition.
I found being with other parents just wonderful, again, unconditional understanding and
support, along with a great sense of humour – is what often unites us as parents of children,
young people and men living with Duchenne.
I look forward to more in-person meet ups in the future. It was the highlight of our month!
Find out more about our Turning Point project for 8 – 14 year olds and see how you could get involved. Our next Turning Point online session will be an art session held on Wednesday July 24th at 6pm. We’d love to see you there!
