Living with muscular dystrophy affects more than the individual. Families and carers can play a vital role in providing practical, emotional and day-to-day support, while often facing significant challenges themselves.
The TMDCN Family & Carer Support Programme provides information, guidance, peer support and signposting to help families and carers better understand muscular dystrophy and navigate the challenges that can come with supporting someone living with the condition.
Why Family & Carer Support Matters
Muscular dystrophy can affect many aspects of family life, including education, employment, finances, relationships, independence and emotional wellbeing.
Families and carers may need support to understand the condition, access appropriate services, make informed decisions and provide effective support without losing sight of their own wellbeing.
Our programme aims to help families and carers feel more informed, connected and supported.
What We Offer
Information & Education – We provide accessible information about muscular dystrophy, including its impact on individuals and families, available support services, care considerations and ways to promote independence.
Family Guidance & Support – We provide guidance to families navigating the practical challenges associated with muscular dystrophy and help them identify appropriate sources of support.
Carer Support – We recognise the important role of unpaid and family carers. We provide information, signposting and support to help carers better understand their role and consider their own wellbeing.
Peer Support – Through the TMDCN Connect Network, families and carers can connect with others who have shared experiences, helping to reduce isolation and create opportunities for mutual encouragement and information sharing.
Signposting & Referrals – Where appropriate, we can signpost families and carers to relevant healthcare, rehabilitation, social care, disability and community support services.
Advocacy & Inclusion – We support families in understanding their rights and promoting inclusion in education, healthcare, employment and wider community life.
Supporting Children, Young People & Adults – The needs of families can change throughout different stages of life.
We aim to provide information and support relevant to:
- Parents and families of children living with muscular dystrophy
- Young people transitioning towards greater independence
- Adults living with muscular dystrophy
- Spouses, partners and other family members
- Unpaid and family carers
- Families adjusting to a new diagnosis
You Are Not Alone
A diagnosis of muscular dystrophy can bring uncertainty and many questions. Families and carers do not have to navigate these challenges alone.
TMDCN is committed to building a supportive community where individuals, families and carers can access reliable information, connect with others and find appropriate sources of support.
Get Support
If you are a family member or carer supporting someone living with muscular dystrophy, we are here to help you find information and appropriate support.
Please note: TMDCN is not a healthcare provider and does not replace professional medical, social care or mental health services. Where specialist support is required, we can provide appropriate signposting or referral information where available.
The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign Nigeria (MDCN) is a registered charity in Nigeria set up to create awareness and reach Nigerian audience, educating people about Muscular Dystrophy (MD)