Who is Maxwell McKnight and what is SMA?

Maxwell McKnight is a 21-year-old man diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a muscle-wasting disease. He is known for climbing Snowdon and advocating for newborn screening.

Why is Maxwell McKnight campaigning for the NHS heel prick test?

Maxwell is campaigning to add SMA screening to the heel prick test to enable early diagnosis and treatment, which can save lives and preserve muscle function.

What inspired Maxwell McKnight's climb up Snowdon?

Maxwell McKnight's climb up Snowdon was a personal challenge and a major fundraising effort for the charity SMA UK, raising £50,000.

Home / Health / SMA Warrior Inspires With Unstoppable Life Outlook

SMA Warrior Inspires With Unstoppable Life Outlook

18 Jan

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Summary

Maxwell McKnight, diagnosed with SMA, became first wheelchair user to climb Snowdon.
He advocates for SMA screening on NHS newborn heel prick tests.
McKnight aims for university first, CEO role, and global SMA awareness.

SMA Warrior Inspires With Unstoppable Life Outlook

Maxwell McKnight, a 21-year-old from St Neots, Cambridgeshire, is challenging perceptions of life with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Diagnosed at age two, he recently became the first wheelchair user to ascend Snowdon in 2024, a significant fundraising achievement for SMA UK. McKnight is now using his platform to advocate for SMA screening to be added to the NHS newborn heel prick test, highlighting that early detection is crucial for preserving muscle and improving long-term outcomes.

McKnight, who is predicted to graduate with first-class honours, communicates a powerful message of resilience and possibility to those affected by SMA, including a video address to Jesy Nelson. He emphasizes that a life with disability can be incredibly meaningful, citing his own independence through driving, university studies, and relationships. His advocacy is supported by SMA UK and the Mirror's campaign, pushing for governmental action on the low-cost screening test.