A 12-year old boy with muscular dystrophy shares his poignant reaction to one of fifty photographs, in a unique, new online exhibition.

Reflections in Colour, launched on 10 May 2021, is a series of pictures born of the friendship between a businessman and a successful cinematographer

Sammy, from Alton in Hampshire is 12-years-old and has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. As a family, they have fundraised extensively for MDUK. Oliver (dad) is an MDUK ambassador.

Sammy has become accustomed to using his powered wheelchair to get around and see the world. He has an ‘army of support‘in and out of school, and Tricia (mum) is his main carer. Sammy continues to overcome his fears and deal with his disability. He is flourishing in school and learning vital life skills for the future.

Tricia said: “Any family with a child or adult living with a muscle wasting condition will tell you birthdays and spending time as a family are very precious. Just over three years ago, we moved from London to Hampshire to get a bigger home and start the journey of getting schools for special needs for both children.“

For Reflections in Colour Sammy chose a photograph titled May Tree

When this photo was taken, Sammy was still able to walk along the meadows to see the beautiful scenery. He felt a real sense of achievement in being able to climb up the meadows with his tired and aching legs. For him, it would have been like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Fast forward two years and Sammy has now lost his mobility and is unable to walk or enjoy the meadows. Our house has adaptations with hoists to lift him in and out of bed or into his recliner chair or wheelchair. We take so much for granted, and time is so precious. I wish we could turn back time, but we love imagining how Sammy will be able to do these things in the future with the use of an all-terrain wheelchair.”

The exhibition was created by retired director of photography, Chris Howard and Andrew Robertson, who has limb girdle muscular dystrophy.

Chris worked in film and television all over the world, with credits from film classics like North Sea Hijack and International Velvet, through countless commercials, documentaries and television shows including Minder, Peak Practice and Soldier Soldier and, more recently, New Tricks and Doc Martin.

The exhibition features very high-quality prints which are mounted on Foamex 3mm board and printed in Scotland. They are available to buy through Chris’ website: crispandsharp.co.uk.

Andrew said: “My friendship with Chris developed after he organised the Kent Castle Walk, four years ago, in aid of MDUK. Chris’ daughter also has muscular dystrophy, and after that first experience together, Chris and I would often meet for coffee.

“I was blown away by his wonderful artwork, and what we originally planned as an actual show in a Whitstable art gallery has become a virtual exhibition.”

Chris said: “When I met Andrew, his enthusiasm and energy made everything possible. We have remained very good friends.

Louise Moffat, MDUK Regional Development Manager for London, South East and East England, said: “I am filled with admiration for the work Andrew and Chris have done to create this extensive exhibition. The power in their friendship is fantastic. #mymate. I am very grateful to them for donating to MDUK through the sales. The images are completely unique and all of a very high quality. I can’t decide which one I would choose to hang on my wall.”