Awaaz Forum Bringing South Asian families together in West Yorkshire

“The group aims to break down the barriers of language and culture that may prevent some people getting the best support available.”Nazma Chowdhury (left) and Anisa Kothia (right) started the Awaaz Forum in 2014

Join us online:Find us on Facebook: Neuromuscular Awaaz Forumwww.musculardystrophyuk.org

The Awaaz Forum is supported by Muscular Dystrophy UK and the neuromuscular team at Leeds Children’s Hospital at Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust.

Muscular Dystrophy UK, 61A Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 0BU

@MDUK_News#MusclesMatter

www.musculardystrophyuk.orgRegistered Charity No. 205395 and Registered Scottish Charity No. SC039445

“It can be incredibly isolating having a child who has a muscle-wasting condition that people know little about. Navigating the health system and negotiating all the NHS services can be extremely daunting.”Nazma’s son Mahid has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. They live in Bradford.

Nazma Chowdhury and Anisa Kothia, two mums in West Yorkshire, started the Awaaz Forum in West Yorkshire in late 2014. They want to bring together South Asian families in the area who, like theirs, are living with muscle-wasting conditions.

“Being able to speak to other people who can relate to you and understand exactly what you are going through can be a huge source of support and comfort.”Anisa’s son Yusuf has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. They live in Dewsbury.

We support people living with more than 60 rare and very rare progressive muscle-wasting conditions, affecting about 70,000 people in the UK. We run some 45 groups across the country, where people can meet to discuss common issues and give each other support and advice.

We also offer a personal support system for families at their point of need. Our helpline and information service last year responded to more than 25,000 requests for help.

If you would like to meet other people who understand what it’s like living with a muscle-wasting condition, the Awaaz Forum is always keen to welcome new members. Please join in.

To find out more, please get in touch with:Bobby Ancil, Neuromuscular Outreach Managerb.ancil@musculardystrophyuk.org0792 018 8970Helpline: 0800 652 6352