AN inspirational man who has helped transform the lives of disabled people all over the world has received national recognition.
Matthew Lanham, chief executive of the Neuromuscular Centre (NMC), was recently presented with an OBE by Prince William.
The Winsford-based charity, founded in 1990 by Sarah Kelly and Kate Fox, provides a range of unique, specialist services for young people and adults with muscular dystrophy and various neuromuscular conditions.
It is the only centre of its kind in the UK and has Europe’s only neuromuscular gym.
“We are unique, there is nowhere like us,” said Matthew, who took over from Sarah in 2005 and has led the centre for 17 years.
“I inherited this wonderful little charity that has an astonishing ethos, empowering all these incredibly talented disabled people who are full of energy, skill and enthusiasm.”
The centre offers services including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, support, advice and training courses.
Disabled people learn new skills and conquer amazing challenges.
Some work for an award winning graphic design company, run by the centre.
Matthew said: “The NMC has changed a lot in the last 17 tears but our ethos and culture, and our focus on what people can do, remain steadfastly the same.
“It’s always immensely rewarding and great fun steering NMC towards some major new development.”
He paid tribute to people, who helped to shape the centre in the past, and have since have passed away.
“We’ve lost some pivotal people over the years and I shan’t forget them and the contribution each of them made to our culture and our work,” said Matthew.
“The thing about NMC is how a collective enthusiasm keeps the place driving forward whatever is thrown at us.
“If I’ve been able to do anything, it’s been to harness the power and potential of that enthusiasm to make some good things happen.”
“We’ve been blessed with some world class fundraisers, incredibly loyal and active supporters and a squad of talented volunteers always keen to pitch up and help.”
Matthew and his family were invited to Windsor Castle on December 7 to receive his award.
“Being honoured with an OBE has been wonderful,” said Matthew.
“The joy it’s brought to the wider NMC community has been immense.
“I aim to channel the awareness that the OBE will give to the centre for greater good.
“This is such a joyful place to work, it is much more than a job, it has become a passion.
“To work with such lovely people is amazing.
“Not everyone gets a chance to have such a fantastic career. I am really lucky.”
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