How we help families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy
The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has been supporting families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy for fifty years. Since 1959 we have been fighting to find a cure for this devastating life-limiting condition, as well as providing free care and support. Entirely thanks to voluntary income raised by families and other supporters, the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has invested over £50 million into potential treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy and related conditions over the years and invests heavily in research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In the last 10 years, around £2.8 million has funded research specifically aimed at benefiting people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and a further £1.5 million has been invested in more general projects which would also have a benefit for those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
We fund world-class pioneering research - from basic science and translational research to clinical pilot studies - with around 20 projects live at any one time. Of these, typically 5-7 projects will be research specifically targeted to Duchenne. In addition, there are currently several general research projects on topics such as stem cells and quality of life that could also benefit boys and men with these conditions.
Our scientists are cautiously optimistic that some form of treatment might be available in the coming decade. Read more in our research section.
We provide vital support for children and adults through our care advisors and information service, and our grants towards vital equipment.
We play an active role in campaigning for drastic improvements to the support provided to everyone with muscle disease. The life expectancy for boys with Duchenne in the North East of England is 28; in the South West it is 18. This shocking discrepancy is due to the lack of access to specialist care.
Our campaigning work in the South West has led to a £1 million investment from the NHS which will make a real difference to families with Duchenne in the area. We continue to fight for improved specialist care in every region of the UK with our regional Muscle Group campaigns.
Please don't walk away
Help us continue our vital work to give help and hope to children like Bradley.
