Support CJ’s Fight with Duchenne – Provide Care at Home

Hi, my name is Natalie and I am the proud mom of CJ. CJ is a sweet, funny, resilient 10 year old boy who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Every day brings new challenges, and one of those is something most of us take for granted — taking a shower.

Duchenne is a rare, progressive, and terminal muscle-wasting disease that primarily affects boys. It causes the muscles in the body to weaken over time until they can no longer support movement. Right now, CJ is non-ambulatory — he no longer walks at all and depends fully on his wheelchair. There is no cure for Duchenne, and as the years go on, his muscles will continue to weaken. Equipment like this will not be a temporary solution, but a lifelong necessity.

At this stage, CJ cannot safely shower. Because of his condition and our bathroom setup, I have to give him sponge baths in bed. This is uncomfortable for CJ, exhausting for me as his caregiver, and not nearly as thorough or respectful as he deserves. What should be a simple daily routine has turned into a difficult task for both of us.

The solution is a TubBuddy SB2T transfer and tilt bathing system. With this equipment, CJ would transfer once from his wheelchair into the TubBuddy chair. From there, the chair wheels easily into the bathroom and locks securely to the bridge that sits over our bathtub. Then, with no heavy lifting or extra transfers, the TubBuddy smoothly maneuvers him right into the tub where he can shower safely and comfortably. No straining, no risk — just a simple way for CJ to feel clean, cared for, and at ease.

Because it tilts, the TubBuddy will also relieve the strain and pressure on CJ’s back — something that will only become more important as his disease progresses. It will hold him securely through every stage, giving him comfort and stability now and in the future. This is not just a short-term aid, but an essential piece of equipment that will serve CJ for the rest of his life.

We’ve already measured our bathroom and confirmed the SB2T will fit perfectly. The only barrier left is the cost. The system is around $3,100–$3,500 new, plus accessories, shipping, and fees. This is far beyond what our family can manage alone, which is why I’m asking for help.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward purchasing the TubBuddy SB2T for CJ. If we are able to find a gently used unit through a medical loan closet, any remaining funds will go to related supplies and equipment for his care.

This chair will give CJ back the dignity of a safe, comfortable shower and give me peace of mind as his mom. It would change our daily lives in such a meaningful way.

Thank you so much for reading, for sharing, and for supporting CJ. Even if you cannot donate, sharing this campaign means the world to us.