An 11-year-old boy from Bamber Bridge, Preston, who is battling a life-limiting muscle-wasting condition, has expressed his heartfelt wish to play darts with his hero, Luke Littler. Harry, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), has seen his health deteriorate, making it increasingly difficult for him to pursue his passion for darts.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a severe progressive muscle weakness condition that predominantly affects males, according to NHS Inform. Harry's older brother and uncle also live with the condition. Despite his struggles, darts has been a significant source of joy and motivation for Harry, who previously played for the Blackburn Youth Darts Academy before his condition made continued participation too challenging.
Harry's mother, Leanne, is now making a public appeal for Luke Littler, the World Darts Champion, to meet her son for a game. She hopes to surprise Harry, whose bedroom is adorned with Littler posters and whose tablet screensaver features the darts star, to lift his spirits. Leanne described how Littler 'means the absolute world' to Harry, inspiring him to play and providing comfort during difficult times.
The family's appeal comes as Harry's ability to play darts diminishes, with his mother stating it is a 'now or never' situation. Harry had a brief encounter with Littler last year when the star signed his shirt at the World Matchplay Darts event in Blackpool, but a full game remains his ultimate dream.
Arron Taylor from Derian House Children's Hospice, which supports Harry and his family, highlighted the profound impact a meeting with Littler would have. Taylor noted Harry's absolute obsession with darts, recounting his enjoyment in the sport and even winning his first tournament. He emphasised that a game with Littler would 'mean the world' to Harry and create an unforgettable memory for the family.