Derby Charity marks 50 years with Firewalk Challenge to support people living with Myasthenia

Could you walk barefoot across burning hot coals to help people living with a rare disease?

That is exactly the challenge myaware is inviting people to take on this September as the UK charity based in Derby marks 50 years of supporting people affected by myasthenia.

On Friday 18th September, supporters will gather at Derby Rugby Club for the myaware 50th Anniversary Firewalk, an inspiring evening where ordinary people will take extraordinary steps to raise funds and awareness for a condition that many have never heard of, but which affects an estimated 20,000 people across the UK.

A hidden condition with life-changing consequences
Myasthenia is a rare group of neuromuscular conditions that disrupt communication between nerves and muscles, causing muscle weakness that can fluctuate throughout the day. Simple activities many of us take for granted, smiling, speaking, swallowing, lifting a kettle, climbing stairs or even breathing can suddenly become exhausting or, in severe cases, life-threatening.

Because myasthenia is a rare condition, many people spend months or even years seeking a diagnosis. Others face misunderstanding because their symptoms can be invisible and vary from day to day. Through personal stories shared by people living with myasthenia, families describe the physical and emotional impact of adapting to an unpredictable condition while finding strength through the support of the myaware community.

For 50 years, myaware has been there for those individuals and families, providing expert support, advocacy, practical advice, peer networks, and funding research to improve treatments and find a cure.

A challenge that symbolises courage
As part of the celebrations for this milestone anniversary, myaware is asking supporters to take on one of its boldest fundraising events yet.

The Firewalk is not about being fearless, it is about standing alongside people living with myasthenia, whose everyday lives often require remarkable courage and resilience.

Participants will receive full professional training before walking across hot embers. No previous experience is required, just determination and a willingness to make a difference.

Registration is offered on a pay-what-you-can basis to make the event as accessible as possible, with participants encouraged to raise funds to help myaware continue supporting people affected by myasthenia through information, support services, awareness campaigns, and research.

Helen Critchlow, National Fundraising Manager said: “Every day, people living with myasthenia overcome challenges most of us never have to think about. As we celebrate 50 years of myaware, we are inviting the public to take on a challenge that represents courage, determination, and hope. Every person who joins our Firewalk will be helping ensure that no one faces myasthenia alone.”

Event Details
myaware 50th Anniversary Firewalk
Date: Friday 18th September 2026
Venue: Derby Rugby Club
Registration: Pay what you can
Training: Full professional firewalk training included
Suitable for: Anyone aged 18+ with no previous experience required.

To register or find out more, visit the myaware Firewalk page.