2014 Leon took his last independent steps. Duchenne muscular dystrophy robs children like Leon of the basic skills we teach our children. Walking, standing, brushing teeth, hair, lifting a cup without spilling, feeding themselves. The list goes on. Barely able to hug those close to him now, everyday life is a challenge but for the wonderful people who do so much to physically support him. Watching Duchenne gradually weaken his entire body, his hand help up in class by his T.A when Leon has something to contribute to the lesson. I realised that before long even answering his mobile is difficult. This weekend I called his phone on connecting he called out "hold on I've got to get the phone to my ear". When Duchenne did you steal that ability away from him. We cannot stop this conditions progress and it is 100% fatal. Even though he is aware of his fate he does not give up hope. He has agreed that he will undergo tendon release surgery and spinal rods to be fitted in his back in the hope that we can relieve pressure on his failing respitory system which he hopes will give scientist time to find a cure in his life time. He acknowledged that if this doesn't happen he wants them to keep working for other's. A smile on his face, a giggle that's infectious, a teenage boy with the normal teenage antics and frame of mind coupled with extreme positivity that at times astounds myself and his family and friends alike. A brave much loved little man who was once so tiny he was my little dot. Help us raise the funds for equipment that will give him some independence to scratch his own head. Tweek his ear. Put his headphones on. Take a phone call and pick up a cup to raise to his mouth without having to drop his head down to drink. As always Team Leon (Leons chance) makes donations to charity, this year we will be donating to (Joining Jack) Duchenne UK.