Newsletter
Hugo Duggin-Jones
03 Mar 2025
Meet three-year-old Hugo Duggins-Jones, a little boy with a big personality! His cheeky grin and mischievous nature bring joy to his parents, Becky and Charlie, every day. With a fiercely independent streak, Hugo is determined to take on the world in his own way.
Hugo’s Diagnosis: A Journey to Answers
Following a smooth pregnancy and birth, there were no immediate signs of concern. However, at four months old, both of Hugo’s grandmothers noticed he wasn’t holding his head up independently or tracking movement with his eyes. After numerous tests, scans, and an MRI at Great Ormond Street Hospital, Hugo was diagnosed with Ataxia, a rare genetic disorder affecting balance, coordination, speech, and swallowing.
Since Hugo is still young, the full impact of his condition is unknown, but his family is focusing on intensive physiotherapy, speech, and occupational therapy to help him gain independence in everyday tasks like eating and drinking.
Daily Challenges & The Need for Support
Hugo requires round-the-clock assistance. Becky shares:
“From waking up to bedtime, he needs help with dressing, eating, toileting, and even communicating his needs. He uses a positional chair to eat and drink, and requires one-to-one supervision to help him pace himself.”
Despite these challenges, Hugo’s family is committed to helping him progress, ensuring he gets the support he needs to thrive.
Why Fundraising is Essential for Hugo
Hugo’s family is fundraising with Tree of Hope to provide him with the specialist therapy, equipment, and home adaptations he needs. While the NHS offers some support, private therapy provides more frequent and tailored care, which is crucial for Hugo’s development.
Charlie explains:
“The NHS can only offer so much, and waiting times are long. Seeing private therapists regularly means they understand his needs better and can help him progress faster.”
Already, the impact of private therapy is evident:
- Hugo can now sit unsupported and transition from lying to sitting
- He has started army crawling, a significant milestone for his mobility
- His core strength is improving, helping him overcome low muscle tone
- He’s learning to use communication tools, reducing frustration
Fundraising in 2025: What’s Next?
After a hugely successful fundraising year in 2024, Hugo’s family is gearing up for another year of exciting events in 2025:
Chelmsford Half Marathon (March 2nd) – Charlie and eight friends are taking on the challenge!
Becky’s Triathlon (September) – Pushing personal limits for Hugo’s future.
Annual Quiz Night – Following last year’s success, this event will raise funds for intensive physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in Portugal.
With the help of family, friends, and an amazing community, the family is embracing fundraising as a fun and fulfilling part of their journey.
“I was raised to work hard and never ask for help, so fundraising felt difficult at first. But we’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for support—whether financial, time, or just someone to listen.”
A Message of Gratitude
The family is incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated and supported them:
“Thank you will never be enough, but we will never stop thanking you for giving Hugo the opportunities he deserves.”
Follow Hugo’s Journey
Stay updated on Hugo’s progress and fundraising efforts by following @Thats_Hugo’s_Way on Instagram!
Tree of Hope is proud to support Hugo and his family on their journey. Together, we can help him reach his full potential!
“Thank you will never be enough, but we will never stop thanking you for giving Hugo the opportunities he deserves.”
