Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) affects approximately 15,000 to 20,000 young boys in the US, but for the Richard and Jamie Romito family, those numbers mean nothing.
All three of their sons have this rare muscle-wasting disease. When their oldest was diagnosed, doctors gave Richard and Jamie a grim prognosis and told them to take him home, love him, and give him the best quality of life possible.
In response to this devastating conversation, they founded a nonprofit organization called the Romito Foundation. It provides boys with DMD living in the Rocky Mountains area the opportunity to go to camp, be with other kids with DMD, and to have fun. It also takes kids on outings throughout the year.
In the past, DMD would cause death by around age 14 due to respiratory failure. But treatments are improving, so there is reason for the Romitos to be hopeful. Until there’s a cure, though, they’ve dedicated their efforts to improving the lives of those who suffer.
In fact, Richard was recently recognized as an Everyday Hero by the Denver News Channel.
On June 10, 2017, the Romito Foundation will host the 2017 Wine and Beer Tasting and Silent Auction. Here are the details just in case you’re in the area:
- When: 6-10 p.m., Saturday, June 10, 2017
- Where: The Four Star Westin, Westminster, Colorado
- What: Beer and wine tasting from some of the finest micro-breweries and wineries, great food, fabulous live music, and an awesome silent action
- How much: $60 per person; ticket holders must be 21 and up
To buy a ticket, click here.
