This is my son Deniz, who will be 3 years old on 15th October 2008.

A few months ago, he was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,

a progressive muscle-wasting disease which mostly affects boys and leads, on average, to the loss of independent walking by the age of 10, paralysis by the late teens and shortened life expectancy. 

There is currently no cure. 

Because he is so young, Deniz has not been significantly affected by the disease as yet.  He is a loving, cheerful little boy, so full of life, which makes it almost unbearable to contemplate the future that awaits him if the cure is not found soon.

In the last few years medical research has advanced considerably and the ongoing clinical trials have been very encouraging – for the first time, it looks

like the cure is within reach.  However, more funds are needed to continue the research and the charity aiming to raise them is Action Duchenne http://www.actionduchenne.org/.   

To contribute to the fundraising effort, I took part in the Adidas Women’s 5K running challenge in Hyde Park, on 7th September 2008.

If you would like to sponsor me, donating through this site is simple, efficient, fast and totally secure.  Action Duchenne will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Thank you for your support,

Tamara