Story
This is my cousin Thomas, he is 10 years old and he has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. (DMD). DMD is a genetic disorder characterised by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness due to alterations of a protein called dystrophin. The lack of the dystrophin protein in muscle cells causes them to be fragile and easily damaged.
There is currently no cure for DMD but there is hope. Now is an exciting time for new research and everyday scientists are finding out more about muscle-wasting conditions so that they can bring new treatments and new hope to everyone affected. But funding is needed to support this pioneering research and I am asking for your help, to help Thomas and other children like him.
I am no runner but I have signed up for the London Marathon! I am aiming to raise £2000. I would be very grateful for donations to further support this crucial research. But enough from me. Here is Liz and Jon, Thomas' parents talking about Thomas and DMD.
"Thanks, Will. That's all very well summed up.
Receiving such a diagnosis is every parent’s worst nightmare. Ours was confirmed just after
Thomas’ fourth birthday. Initially the shock and pain are almost too much to bear. Life-limiting conditions, with such stark prospects can overwhelm you and take you to a very dark place.
Rather than dwell on the obvious negatives and be dragged down by it, we have put two fingers up to Duchenne and are determined we will not let it define us as a family. It’s important to look at all the positives in life and when you see our determined, stubborn, often
argumentative but wonderful little boy you can’t help but be inspired. People like Will, completing awesome challenges are also inspirational and their selfless acts really make a
difference, monies raised will help protect future families as the development of effective treatments improves.
We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support."
Jon, Liz and Thomas x