Lewes girl unveils the 'Muscular Dystrophy UK - Forest Bathing Garden' at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Josie was diagnosed with the condition, Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD), just after her second birthday. Muscular Dystrophy UK has supported them by introducing the family to peer support groups and giving them advice and support to move forward with their lives supporting them with practical decisions such as car seats, wheelchairs and adaptation support for the home, as well as essential financial advice and allowance support.

Josie joined another family from the Muscular Dystrophy community, the charity’s President, Gabby Logan, as well as well-known celebrity sports ambassadors (Kenny Logan, Sue Barker and David Moyes) and other celebrities who visited the garden.

Josie’s Mum, Charlotte Chubb said: "The garden's concept itself will entice people living with muscular dystrophy to experience the benefits of nature, whether that be exploring it or using it as a place for contemplation.

"As a family which loves the outdoors and uses nature to show our daughter Josie that, despite her Ullrich Congenital Muscular Dystrophy diagnosis, she can enjoy all that nature has to offer, we are extremely pleased to see this partnership between MDUK and Project Giving Back delivering such a unique platform.”

Awarded a Gold medal on the first day of the show, the ‘Muscular Dystrophy UK Forest Bathing Garden’ has more than 50 birch trees planted in the garden to achieve a birch grove atmosphere, providing dappled shade and thus enhancing the experience of forest bathing.

The birch trees were underplanted with woodland edge-style plants, varying from deep shade corners to more open, sunnier woodland glades. The experience is enriched by 4,000 plants, the majority of which have been selected for their beautiful foliage, creating a green tapestry that is rich in texture, with an occasional burst of colour.

Muscular Dystrophy UK is the leading charity for more than 110,000 people in the UK living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions – they are delighted to showcase their Forest Bathing garden at the world’s most prestigious flower show, which has been generously sponsored by unique grant-making charity Project Giving Back.

Muscular Dystrophy UK’s President Gabby Logan MBE said: “I am proud to stand alongside Ambassadors and families as part of the Muscular Dystrophy UK community. Our garden will help raise awareness of these rare conditions so that more people understand what it is like to live with a muscle wasting or weakening condition.

"We know that having access to outside space is essential for our community’s well-being. Our beautiful Forest Bathing garden highlights the importance of having an accessible space, amongst nature for the benefit of positive mental health.

"As well as raising awareness, we also need to continue to raise funds so that the 110,000 people affected can continue to have access to vital support, healthcare and treatments to enable them to live well.”

The show officially opens today until Sat May 25. More about the garden can be found at chelsea.musculardystrophyuk.org

To learn more about Josie's story please read his attached case study – www.musculardystrophyuk.org