On the first Sunday in May, Cincinnati, OH hosts the Flying Pig Marathon – its 26.2 mile race. This year marked the 24th annual event. But for 17-year-old Diego Ramirez, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), this event marked his 11th race completion. Learn more about the Flying Pig Marathon.
According to WLWT5, the high school junior lives an incredibly active life. Diego uses mobility assistance (in this case, a wheelchair). He is a strong student, a member of the school’s theater department, and a passionate graphic designer. So it’s no surprise that, when the opportunity to finish his 11th marathon was put on the table, Diego jumped at the chance.
Diego was joined during the marathon by his uncle and his friend, as well as his father. Altogether, the group happily and confidently passed the finish swine.
Next year, Diego will be completing his senior year of high school and preparing for college. And if all goes well, we’ll see him tackle his 12th marathon as well.
About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is one of nine forms of muscular dystrophy. This rare genetic disorder results from DMD gene mutations. Normally, DMD regulates the production of dystrophin, a protein associated with muscle strength and stability. However, the gene mutations prevent the body from making dystrophin, causing progressive muscle weakness. DMD is significantly more prevalent in males than females, occurring in 1 in 3,500 male births and 1 in 500,000,000 female births; because of this, females are often considered to be carriers.
Symptoms of DMD typically manifest by age six. These can include:
- Progressive muscle weakness which often begins in the legs, thighs, and pelvis
- Fatigue
- Frequent falling
- Enlarged calf muscles
- Delayed motor development
- Difficulty walking or changing positions
- Lumbar lordosis (inward spinal curvature)
- Waddling gait
- Intellectual or learning delays
- Cardiomyopathy
- Progression to heart disease and/or respiratory failure
