Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of the most severe forms of inherited muscular dystrophies. It is the most common hereditary neuromuscular disease and does not exhibit a predilection for any race or ethnic group. Mutations in the dystrophin gene lead to progressive muscle fiber degeneration and weakness.

As Matiz's mom, this was the hardest news I've had to come to terms with. Having a diagnosis like Duchenne creates a level of grief I could never have imagined - anticipatory grief is something I pray to spare any parent. We've learned to take it one day at a time - hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

We have been blessed with a wonderful community that has graciously donated both a manual wheelchair and a power wheelchair for my warrior, Matiz. When choosing our home, I made sure it was a single level bungalow. But we are still faced with how to get the wheelchair into the house ... ramp vs vertical platform lift. The ramp would be much too long - reaching past the sidewalk. So a vertical platform lift it is!

Unite with us in providing M with an accessible home - a way to enter his home ❤️

M&Em United - together we are stronger than Duchenne!

We thank you - from the bottom of our hearts!