It’s a beautiful thing when a community pulls together to support one of its members. This is exactly what the Madeira community is doing for 16-year-old Diego Ramirez. He recently lost his ability to walk due to Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), which requires him to utilize an electric wheelchair. Now, he needs a wheelchair-accessible van. His community is helping to raise the funds, and you can donate here!

Fundraising for Diego

In the previous years, Diego has participated in the flying pig marathon. For the majority of the race, he was pushed in a running stroller before walking over the finish line on his own. He did this to raise awareness for DMD.

Unfortunately, this year Diego will not be able to take part in the race. This isn’t getting Diego down, though, as he said,

“I try to stay the most happy as I can, which allows me to continue life as normal and not feeling like life is miserable.”

Now, the family needs a wheelchair-accessible van to be able to take Diego to school, doctor’s appointments, and other events. Eventually, this van will allow him to go to college, where he plans to study graphic design.

He and his family are so thankful for the support they’ve received from the community; they can’t express it enough. Learn more about their story here.

About DMD

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), is one of nine forms of muscular dystrophy. A mutation passed down in an X-linked recessive pattern stops patients from producing dystrophin, ultimately resulting in progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. Other symptoms include difficulty with motor skills, fatigue, learning disabilities, frequent falls, issues with moving positions, and difficulty walking. Complications may include heart disease and respiratory failure, making treatment integral. The main form of treatment is steroids, but there is ongoing research looking into new options for DMD. Other current options include amino acids, asthma treatment, physical and occupational therapy, heart medications, assisted breathing, carnitine, creatine, and other supplements.