<div><strong>IMPORTANT UPDATE ABOUT TRAVEL PLANS. SEE UPDATES SECTION BELOW FOR DETAILS. </strong>
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<div>We are Ben and Steven lifelong best friends. We are both 31 years old and share a special bond as we battle against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). While our condition has brought its fair share of hardships, we have always remained steadfast in our determination to lead fulfilling lives and make cherished memories together.
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<div>Over the past two years, our lives have been a rollercoaster due to DMD. It's been a struggle for me and Steven as both our swallowing abilities have deteriorated, we both now require full time ventilation and have to rely on being tube fed to get the nutrition needed, but the challenges didn't stop there. Steven faced an even more devastating situation. He had a cardiac arrest, and to make matters worse, he is now in the end stage of kidney failure, doctors told us to say our goodbyes but that was two years ago and Stevens still going strong.
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<div>As our condition has advanced, we have found solace and strength in each other's company. Thus, this trip to South Africa is not just a mere vacation; it signifies the celebration of our unwavering friendship and the shared determination to embrace life to the fullest. Unfortunately, we are also facing some financial hardships that make this dream seem nearly unattainable. Our local council has cut funding for the support services we used to rely on and we can no longer rely on respite care from Martin House Hospice, which provided much-needed relief for our families and caregivers.
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<div>Considering our deteriorating physical condition, we require the assistance of two carers each to ensure our safety and comfort during the trip. This increases the overall cost significantly, as specialised care and accessible facilities are essential for us to have a truly enriching experience in South Africa. To further compound our challenges, both Steven and I are currently relying solely on benefits due to our inability to work, and the cost of living has risen significantly, leaving us struggling to make ends meet. Despite the financial hardships, we remain hopeful that with the support of compassionate individuals like you, we can make this dream a reality. The impact of this journey on our mental health also cannot be overstated. Beyond the physical aspects of DMD, the emotional toll of facing our mortality at such a young age has been immense. This trip would offer us a chance to create treasured memories to hold onto during challenging times.
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<div>Both Steven and I have been passionate about experiencing the wonders of South Africa, a destination we have always dreamed of visiting. However, due to the progressive nature of DMD, our physical limitations have increased over the years, making travel more challenging with each passing day.
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<div>We believe that time is of the essence, and we are well aware that this may be our final opportunity to embark on such an adventure together. The experiences and memories we can create in South Africa would undoubtedly serve as a beacon of hope and joy for us during the difficult times that we may face ahead.
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<div>We have thoroughly the trip and it could cost up to £35,000. The breakdown is roughly as follows:
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<li>Flights for Ben, Steven and four carers between £3500 to £5000
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<li>Accommodation and Safari cost for Ben and Steven £4500 each
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<li>Carer accommodation £4050 x 4
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<li>Profile bed hire £340 x 2
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<li>Manual hoist (shared) £245
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<li>Shower commode £91 x 2
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<li>Insurance for both Ben and Steven £3,000
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<li>Plus money for other costs (transport, paid activities and food/drink ect.) could be up to £5,000
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<div>We understand that this is a substantial amount, but unfortunately that is just the reality of our disability and our requirements for travel. However, we believe that this cost is miniscule in comparison to the lasting memories it will create and the inspiration it will give to others in similar situations.
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<div>We are aiming to travel around middle to late 2026. As you know because of everything outlined above, time is more precious to us.
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<div>Your support would mean the world to us and anything you could contribute would help immensely. Thank you for taking the time to read our story.
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<div>Ben and Steven.
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Charlotte Haswell-Warminger

Anonymous

Malachy Doherty

Wai Yip

John Coombes

S Howard

Daniel Miller

Lisa Standley

George Madders

Tom Marsden

Mike Bates

Jonathan Williamson

Emma Cosgrif

Gurudutt Sidhu

Ben and Steven's last holiday together

Ben and Steven's last holiday together

Still £32,143 to go. Help us build momentum.