Published: 16th February 2026
Going the Extra Mile
In 2016 we met the Voss family, after their son Iain was referred to us. As with every TMD Warrior we support, we sit down with the family and create a wish list, of all of the things they would like to do, see, or own, and start working together to bring their dreams to life.
A sensory projector and TV helped to bring new entertainment into the home for Iain, whilst days out such as the Lion King musical, and Harry Potter World, allowed the whole family to create memories together, taking time out of the everyday to spend quality time together, away from the thought of medical appointments.
4 years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we supported Iain’s family again through our food and hygiene packs, providing relief to TMD families that were shielding and unable to regularly get to the shops. When a TMD family is referred to us, they will always remain a TMD family, which is why even 4 years later we are able to provide support.
“The charity has never been far from my mind”
Julie, Iain’s mum, also kept Taylor-Made Dreams in her thoughts, even a decade later from our first meeting. In 2026, Julie wanted to give something back for the continued support they, and other TMD families, receive. With Iain receiving more full-time care, Julie was able to take on a challenge with a few friends for Taylor-Made Dreams ... A 314km, 5 day cycle around Laos!
A truly massive challenge to take on, with Julie having done no prior cycling events. Days were long (with the longest day hitting 100km) and incredibly humid, but with the friends she came with and the incredible people she met through the cycle, Julie was inspired to continue on, with a little bit of Tina Turner to help them to the finish line on day 5!
We are incredibly proud of Julie’s achievement, and grateful to everyone who supported her, raising an incredible £2,000 in donations! Even Julie was shocked that she could achieve a challenge like this, but she now has hope for future event, knowing that her efforts are part of something bigger, supporting local families in the community.
"It was just phenomenal! The countryside was beautiful, seeing the paddy fields with the workers in them was just amazing. And if anyone is considering a challenge event, and you want to do something to be proud of JUST GO FOR IT!
It's such an experience to be a part of a challenge event that pushes you, and it is life changing. At the end of it I was already thinking right, when is the next one? I had no plans for 2026 in terms of another challenge.... but now I do!”
You can also support TMD in 2026, through Taylor-Made Dreams’ ‘Celebration of Women Vintage Tea for Tay’, an afternoon tea supporting our services, alongside recognising inspirational women in the community for International Women’s Day. Make a difference with an afternoon tea. Book today by emailing: dave@taylormadedreams.org.uk
