Liam was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy when he was 3 years old.  DMD is the most common form of fatal muscular dystrophy.  It mainly effects boys, and effects all muscles, icluding cardiac and skeletal.  Typically, boys with Duchenne lose their ability to walk between the ages of ten and fourteen. By their late teens, young men lose the strength in their upper bodies, including the ability to move their arms. Also during their teenage years, young men with Duchenne usually need help with breathing at night. Over time, their breathing or respiratory systems weaken, and they require constant support. Young men with Duchenne typically survive into their twenties or early thirties. 

Liam is still able to walk at the age of 11, and uses a scooter for longer distances. Unfortunately, his heart is showing signs of DMD.  He takes multiple medications, some with serious side effects.  Overall, he is a sweet, bright young man.  He loves playing with his brothers, and just finished his first year in 4 H showing his pig, Maurice.  

Liam's medical needs are increasing, as are the costs.  We recently ordered his first wheel chair, with power wheels, at the cost of almost $16,000.  We need to start making adaptations to our home to make it more accessible for him.