Lewes girl with muscular dystrophy gets exclusive early look at new Forest Bathing Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Josie Chubb and her family were invited to see the Gold-award winning Muscular Dystrophy UK – Forest Bathing Garden on Monday, May 20.

The garden, designed by Ula Maria, is open until Saturday, May 25.

Josie’s mother Charlotte 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.”

Muscular Dystrophy UK (www.musculardystrophyuk.org) said Josie was diagnosed with Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) shortly after her second birthday. In 2023 Charlotte told the Sussex Express that the condition means Josie cannot run, jump or climb stairs and also means Josie’s upper body is weak.

Charlotte said: “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.”

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MDUK said they have supported Josie’s family by introducing them to peer support groups and giving them advice. They have supported them with practical decisions around car seats, wheelchairs and adaptation support for the home, as well as financial advice and allowance support. MDUK said the Chubb family are supporting them by raising funds and have set up a Muscular Dystrophy UK Family Fund called The Chubb’s Crusade – Understanding Ullrich.

On Monday, Josie joined another family at the garden, as well as the charity’s president Gabby Logan and celebrity sports ambassadors Kenny Logan, Sue Barker and David Moyes.

MDUK said their UK Forest Bathing Garden was awarded a Gold medal on the first day of the flower show. It contains more than 50 birch trees and 4,000 beautiful plants.

MDUK president Gabby Logan MBE said: “Our beautiful Forest Bathing garden highlights the importance of having an accessible space, among nature for the benefit of positive mental health.”