Meet Matthew and Lucy Johnston: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Meet Matthew and Lucy Johnston, two spirited seven-year-old twins from Surrey who are showing the world that their cerebral palsy diagnoses won’t define them. These determined twins have turned their challenges into opportunities for growth and community spirit. Discover their incredible journey and how they’ve been supported by Tree of Hope.

Early Challenges and Diagnoses

Matthew and Lucy live with their parents, Nicola and David, and their big sister, Leigh. Concern grew when the twins missed key developmental milestones. Despite early assurances, the family pursued private medical evaluations. Lucy was diagnosed with quadriplegic cerebral palsy, affecting all four limbs, while Matthew was diagnosed with diplegic cerebral palsy, impacting his lower limbs. Although these diagnoses were daunting, the family’s spirit never wavered.

Overcoming Medical Obstacles: Surgeries and Therapy

With the help of Tree of Hope, the family began fundraising to cover the cost of life-changing surgeries. Matthew’s surgery in 2020 and Lucy’s procedure in 2022 have both been successful, allowing them to make incredible progress.

• Matthew: Now able to take independent steps and confidently use a walking frame.
• Lucy: Defying expectations by speaking, sitting up, and gaining more independence each day.

To maximize the benefits of these surgeries, the twins undergo intensive therapies, including:

• Physiotherapy three times a week.
• Hydrotherapy.
• Hippotherapy.

Future Surgeries and Continuing Challenges

As the twins grow, new challenges arise. Matthew is scheduled for femoral torsion corrective surgery in 2025, priced at £25,000. This surgery will improve his knee alignment, allowing him to walk more comfortably. Lucy faces similar challenges, but the family remains hopeful as they continue to work towards greater independence for both children.

Fundraising Success and Community Spirit

Since 2019, the family has raised over £130,000 through a variety of creative fundraising events, including:

• A bi-annual charity ball.
• Golf days.
• A skydive and sponsored walks.
• The 2023 Tough Mudder event, where an impressive 200-person team raised £35,000 for the twins' therapy.

Leigh, their big sister, explains how community involvement has made a huge difference: “We make sure there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s sports, a bake sale, or a charity ball—people want to be part of the journey.”

Looking Ahead: Tough Mudder 2024

The 2024 Tough Mudder will see even bigger goals, with a team of 250 participants—a record for the event. Matthew will also take part in the Mini Mudder, marking another milestone in his journey toward independence.

Tree of Hope Support

The Johnston family has expressed immense gratitude for the Tree of Hope’s support, from helping with fundraising to providing PR assistance. Leigh says, “The support we’ve had from Tree of Hope has been unreal! They’ve helped us every step of the way.”

Follow the Johnston Twins' Journey

To support Matthew and Lucy, follow their progress on social media:

• Facebook: helplittlefeet2walk
• Instagram: JohnstonTwins17