Toowoomba’s Mitchell Fletcher laid to rest at 32 after living full life with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A Toowoomba music lover and representative sportsman with a severe disability has been remembered as a man who lived his life without fear of his condition.

Even in the face of a severe disability, Mitchell Fletcher never thought of himself as a victim.

To friends, family and loved ones, the Toowoomba man was a “warrior” who lived his life exactly how he wanted.

Tributes have flowed for Mr Fletcher, who passed away last month after complications with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). He was 32.

The dedicated rep-level wheelchair sportsman, Metallica superfan, gamer and regular of the Toowoomba live music scene was farewelled at Burstow’s on June 25 by hundreds of people.

He was a regular in Toowoomba’s pubs, particularly the Irish Club — where he became a favourite of patrons, staff and musicians.

The venue now bears a plaque with his name on it.

Toowoomba man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy Mitchell Fletcher, pictured here with brother Ryan, has been remembered as a "warrior" who wouldn't let his severe condition stop him from living life.

He represented both Australia and Queensland in wheelchair sports and was known as a vocal Brisbane Lions, Broncos and Queensland supporter.

DMD is a severe form of muscular dystrophy that mainly affects males and leads to a range of effects, including muscle weakness, scoliosis and assisted ventilation.

The average lifespan of someone with the condition is 26.

Carer and dear friend Brett Stefanowicz, who delivered the eulogy, said Mr Fletcher was not interested in letting his condition define him.

Toowoomba man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy Mitchell Fletcher, pictured here with brother Ryan and mum Nat, has been remembered as a "warrior" who wouldn't let his severe condition stop him from living life.

“As much as I have been assisting with Mitch’s care for 20 years, I was really only his carer for the first couple of years — I became his mate and eventually I felt like a brother,” he said.

“When I was thinking about a way to describe Mitch the word ‘warrior’ kept popping into my head — someone who faces challenges and adversity with courage, strength and determination.

“Duchenne MD is a mongrel disease, but Mitch faced it head on and gave it a massive f--- you, living way past his expected life span.

“So when you think of Mitch, please don’t pity or feel sorry for him — he lived a life we should all strive for.”

Toowoomba man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy Mitchell Fletcher, pictured here with dad David, has been remembered as a "warrior" who wouldn't let his severe condition stop him from living life.

His father David said he would remember his son as a “fiercely independent” person who cared for his friends and loved ones.

“Mitchell was fiercely independent, he was thoughtful, he was cheeky, he spoke his mind, he loved deeply and cared about people in his own way,” he said.

“Live your life as my son did – head on, full of love, surrounded by people who love you and a little bit of Jameson (whiskey).”

Younger brother Ryan said Mr Fletcher had taught him multiple lessons about gratitude, authenticity and personal strength.

“He was my best friend, my wise older brother and most importantly my greatest teacher in life,” he said.

“Mitchell, I promise that when it gets hard, I’ll go a little harder.

“I will live a little braver and when life gives me lemons, I’ll pass on the lemonade and drink a Jameson.

“That is my promise to you and I don’t break promises to people I love.”

Toowoomba man with Duchenne muscular dystrophy Mitchell Fletcher has been remembered as a "warrior" who wouldn't let his severe condition stop him from living life.

Message from Mitchell Fletcher prior to his death

I have so many things in life to live for and I have a purpose.

My life is not a sad story, and every day I am grateful for the life I have been given, nothing will stop me from living my life.

I had a good lunch (Super Rooster), lamb roast dinner, and some Jameson (and) had four hours (of) drunken Facetime with my brother.

I love my mum and I love my dad and always remember what is important, and that nothing else matters.