CureDuchenne, a global leader in research and patient care for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), has been working to find and fund a cure for DMD for more than two decades.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic disorder that predominantly affects males. People with DMD cannot make dystrophin in their muscles, leading to muscle weakness and wasting. Eventually, the disease progresses to the point where heart and lung muscle weakness can lead to respiratory and heart failure. Identifying effective treatments, and an eventual cure, could transform the lives of those affected.
Outside of working towards a cure, CureDuchenne offers innumerable resources to the Becker muscular dystrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy communities: research overviews, webinars, a physical therapy certification program, and outreach and education programs. These resources aim to empower those with Becker or Duchenne, as well as their caregivers, as well as facilitate community connections.
CureDuchenne Cares: Education and Outreach for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
In late January 2024, CureDuchenne announced upcoming CureDuchenne Cares workshops and dinner sessions. These free events include:
- Dinner sessions:
- Charlotte, NC – 2/24/24
- Tampa, FL – 3/16/24
- Pittsburgh, PA – 4/13/24
During dinner sessions, families come together to discuss important concepts like caregiver mental health. Being a caregiver can be challenging; speaking with others who understand what you’re going through, and are united behind a common cause, can provide a great deal of support.
- Full-Day Workshops:
- Atlanta, GA – 2/10/24
- Baltimore, MD – 3/9/24
- Long Island, NY – 4/6/24
During the full-day workshops, families affected by Becker muscular dystrophy or Duchenne muscular dystrophy can come together alongside other stakeholders, such as local physicians and CureDuchenne-chosen experts. These workshops focus on research updates, burgeoning treatment options being explored in clinical studies, and best multidisciplinary care practices. Families can build community while also gaining access to invaluable resources, education, and support.
Learn more about CureDuchenne Cares here.
FUTURES Conference Information
Beyond these events, CureDuchenne is also preparing for its 2024 FUTURES Conference. Held in Orlando, Florida from May 23-26, 2024, 2024 FUTURES is described as:
an annual event focused on bringing education, connection, and hope to the entire Duchenne community. Get ready to transform the future of Duchenne research and, hold on tight, because we’ll also be busting some serious dance moves together!
You can learn more about the FUTURES Conference, and register, using the link above. It’s also important to note that the FUTURES Conference will be hybrid, so you can still participate even if you’re not there in person.