A dedicated father from the West Midlands is preparing to undertake an extraordinary physical challenge to support a vital charity close to his family's heart. Rich Clift, a 38-year-old father-of-two from Staffordshire, will participate in the demanding Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge in May 2026, aiming to raise both awareness and crucial funds for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
A Personal Mission Inspired by Family
Rich's motivation stems from his nine-year-old son, Max, who received a life-changing diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in March 2025. The family's journey began with initial concerns about Max's coordination, which they initially attributed to clumsiness or possible dyspraxia. After raising these concerns with his school, a series of assessments followed, including an evaluation by a community occupational therapist and an urgent referral to a paediatrician.
"Nothing could prepare us for how quickly everything escalated from that point," Rich recalls. "Blood tests, consultants, and suddenly a whirlwind we never asked to be part of. Through it all, the kindness of the professionals around us has made a huge difference."
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
The family endured months of tests and uncertainty before receiving the definitive diagnosis. "We'd never even heard of the condition, but just by the way the news was delivered, we knew it was bad," Rich explains. "Hearing those words felt like the ground disappearing beneath our feet."
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is one of more than 60 muscle-wasting and weakening conditions that affect over 110,000 children and adults across the United Kingdom. Muscular Dystrophy UK serves as the leading charity supporting individuals and families navigating these challenging diagnoses.
Max's Remarkable Spirit
Despite the challenges, Max has shown incredible resilience. "Since his diagnosis, Max has been an absolute superstar," his father shares proudly. "He has to attend a huge amount of hospital appointments but always with a smile on his face, showing the doctors his cheeky side. His sheer determination to not allow the condition to hinder him is admirable."
Sport plays a central role in Max's life, serving as what his family describes as his "happy place." He actively participates in several athletic pursuits:
- Playing for Chasetown Disability Football Team
- Attending weekly swimming classes
- Supporting his favourite sports teams including Wolves FC, Birmingham Bears, and Birmingham Phoenix
The Challenge Ahead
Rich will not face this formidable challenge alone. He will be joined by three companions on his 100km journey along the Jurassic Coast:
- Ashley Pike (brother-in-law)
- Mikey Green (brother-in-law)
- Piers Tunnicliff (friend)
The ultra challenge spans two demanding days on May 16-17, 2026, covering rugged coastal terrain. This physical endeavour represents more than just a personal test for Rich—it symbolizes his family's commitment to making a difference for others facing similar circumstances.
The Clift family now channels their experience into positive action, determined to help other families living with muscle-wasting conditions through their fundraising efforts. Their story highlights both the challenges of receiving a rare diagnosis and the power of community support in turning personal adversity into meaningful charitable action.
