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'Enjoy the world while you can,' says teen with MD

Family Handout Dakota sitting in his chair next to a car in a museum Family Handout
Dakota says it was a "great day" and he got to see all of the cars he loves

Like many teenage boys Dakota loves watching fast cars and Formula One but for him the thrill of the racetrack always seemed a million miles away.

The 14-year-old, from Bournemouth, lives with a severe form of muscular dystrophy (MD) which leaves him needing constant support.

"I can't do things myself - people have to help me go toilet and stuff, and it's hard to lift things up with my arms," he explains, while sitting in a mobility chair alongside his mother Sarah.

A life-limiting condition has made seeing the world a challenge for her son but she is determined to seize the moments that present themselves.

"Because his condition limits how long he's going to live, we want to make the most of all of the opportunities we get, and for him to be as happy as he can be," she says.

Family Handout Dakota in his chair at the side of the racetrack, looking out at the trackFamily Handout
The 14-year-old, from Bournemouth, was given pit-side access at Silverstone

When a Hampshire-based charity got in touch with the family and offered them the opportunity to visit the legendary home of the British Grand Prix, they grabbed the chance.

Dakota, his mother and grandfather were given pit-side access at Silverstone.

"It was something we never thought he would be able to do," Sarah says, before admitting the experience was "very loud".

She says days like this "really help to make his [Dakota's] life better".

Family Handout Dakota and his mother and grandfather at the side of the racetrack looking towards the camera. All are wearing caps with car manufacturers on them.Family Handout
Dakota went to the race track with his mother Sarah and his grandfather

The Muscle Help Foundation in Waterlooville made the trip possible, thanks to funding from BBC Children in Need.

Michael McGrath, from the charity, says the days out, called "muscle warrior days", offer "highly personalised" support for people with MD.

"They bring an enormous amount of joy and happiness to a young person but also stuff like confidence, self-esteem, social connection, bringing the families together," he explains.

"I refer to it as changing lives and giving hope."

Dakota says he felt "happy" to get an opportunity that not many people do.

"It was a great day, I got to see all of the cars that I love," the self-confessed petrolhead says.

"I don't really go out that much so it's good to just go out and enjoy the world while you can."

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